Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Despite awakening in an empty bed, his joints aching with the way he was laying down, his body tense with the cold sensation that only a night spent above the sheets while the window was wide open could guarantee, Hajime opened his eyes feeling more rested than he’d been in a long, long time.

He’d stretched his limbs and sat up and found out with great pleasure that he was able to fully open his eyes without cursing out loud and wishing he could bury his head back in his bed. He’d passed an hand through his hair, and checked his phone.

Komaeda had sent him a quick text. He’d woken up too early, he said, and hoped he didn’t wake him up as well. He had a good time last night, he said. Let’s hang out today, he said. Hajime looked cute when he slept, he’d said.

And Hajime, like any other normal person would do, smiled so wide his face hurt.

Albeit he’d love to say they did in fact spend an entire day hanging out, that’d be very much a lie. Komaeda had smiled when Hajime approached, and they’d spent a few hours together, but eventually, they’d parted ways.

Which, he guessed, was actually a positive thing. Hajime had long been suspecting that he and Komaeda were way too dependent on each other, and even if staying too much time away from him felt like a challenge, slowly and surely, Hajime was learning how to stay five minutes without thinking about him again. Kinda.

Thing was, the majority if not all of his friends immediately noticed his far nicer mood, and they might not have imposed — some of them had. Looking at you Soda — it wasn’t that hard to put the pieces together and notice that this sudden high spirit of his was coincidentally tied to Komaeda’s presence, now next to him again after days avoiding each other.

There were only a few whispers. Like, a normal amount, and most of them came after Hajime had walked out of a room. He guessed he could appreciate their effort to not be too nosy. He couldn’t really blame them.

Komaeda found it hilarious. He’d purposely do anything in his power to make the situation worse than it really was, either making Hajime mad on purpose, or being extra touchy, just to get them to talk. It all merely served to make the other boy embarrassed, which, for some fucking reason, Komaeda seemed to adore.

But when he’d tried to tell him to cut it the fuck out Komaeda had placed an hand on his hip, and another above his head, and questioned, “Oh, so you’re suddenly the one to go get advice from when it comes to good behaviors, Hinata-kun?” Which had served to shut him up, if for shame or frustration, he was still figuring that out.

He also supposed that Komaeda was going to throw that on his face whenever they had anything similar to an argument. Not that he didn’t deserve it, but you know. It still kinda pissed him off.

Komaeda had also apparently decided overnight that he would make it his own personal goal to drive Hajime fucking insane, because there wasn’t a moment where he didn’t take the occasion to send him as many mixed signals as he could master — from getting their knuckles to brush together while they walked to whispering pointless details about something around them, incredibly close to Hajime’s face, only to proceed to walk as away from him as possible and pull away if Hajime ever tried to initiate something. He wasn’t sure if this was some sort of petty revenge, or just Komaeda being Komaeda.

And so they spent the entirety of the day doing everything and nothing at the same time. Walking around the whole island, speaking about anything that came to their minds. Held hands for exactly one minute and forty seconds before something forced them to pull away, and none tried to initiate anything else. It was confusing, and so them, as Hajime was aware they’d wasted two entire weeks acting like absolute idiots for no reason at all.

Thing was that, when Komaeda declared he wanted to go back to his cottage, saying he was tired and his legs needed a rest, he was actually the one that had hesitated once they arrived in front of his door. He’d spent about ten seconds with his hand enclosed around the doorknob, and then ran up to Hajime, kissed his cheek, and shut himself inside.

Hajime’s brain shut off, too. Like, completely. Just so you know.

He’d spent the rest of his hours till the evening floating on a soft cloud, unable to form any rational thought, nor get angry at anyone that made him remotely annoyed, which was a novelty. Love makes you blind, they say, but Hajime would argue it just makes you fucking stupid. He was grateful nobody questioned him for it, or that’d be real fucking embarrassing.

All he could wish at the moment was to hold Komaeda in his arms, as one would expect him to, given how much more infatuated he was every single day. Talking to him made him smile, seeing him from afar on the other side of the room made it so it was impossible to take his eyes anywhere else. It was extremely embarrassing and just a tad humiliating, but that’s what it was.

It all wasn’t anything abnormal, that was, but at the same time, Hajime kept restraining himself from wanting more. It was no secret that he wanted to be the guy’s boyfriend, he had for a long, long while now, and Komaeda. Well. He didn’t fucking know. And he couldn’t just come up to him and say hey, so, what are we? Because if it only turned into another conversation where Hajime needed to wait for him to be ready he was going to tear his eyes out from mortification.

Komaeda’s gestures were incomprehensible, his words circled within another, and Hajime was about to go fucking insane.

Nanami, being thew best of the best, waited for the situation to be a little calmer — for Hajime to not be surrounded by anyone else, bless her — before demanding actual explanations. The change in Hajime’s behavior might look weird and kinda off putting in outer perspective, but Nanami, who knew the whole thing, had it easier to get concerned for him. And both of their sanity. Mainly that. And so she pressed a little more to know what was going on, her love for their friendship and her nature when it came to protecting those she cared about giving her a certain hint of stubbornness that Hajime saw really rarely.

And so she wordlessly followed him to his cottage the next morning after breakfast, blinked wordlessly when Hajime stared at her and asked her if she needed anything, and merely made herself space below his arm the second he opened the door, sneaking inside. He looked at her. She looked back. He let out a sigh.

And so he’d closed the door, crossed his arms and watched her place herself in his bed, like that was her personal spot. He took a breath.

“Can I help you?”

“Sit.” She said. And a demanding Nanami was a scary Nanami, so he obeyed.

Despite this, she smiled. She leaned forward, her hands clenching in excited fists.

“So?”

“…So, what?”

“Hinata,” She puffed her cheeks out. She weirdly looked like an hamster when she did that. And that was probably not the time to take note of that. “You and Komaeda.”

He’d love to keep playing oblivious, really. But then Nanami would just get upset at him, and earning her forgiveness would require at the very least three hours of gameplay and getting his ass beaten every single time.

“R-Right.” He cleared his throat. “Uhm. It’s complicated?”

“It’s been complicated for a while now.”

“A long while.”

“Yup. We’re aware of that.”

“We?”

“Hinata. Serious.”

“Right.” He rubbed the back of his neck, turned his head to the side. “We, uh, we had a talk.”

Nanami had always been a good listener. As she wasn’t one to talk much, her to go manner had always been to stay still and nod a few times while someone told her anything that might be going on in their life. She didn’t really make any sort of comment when Hajime told her what had happened that night, waiting for him to get through a thousand stuttering, awkward gestures, rubs against his face to get rid of an annoying blush that just wouldn’t cut it. In the end, Nanami tilted her head, gripping her backpack and swinging the strings over her shoulders.

She was smiling, however, so he was sure she was glad despite his absolutely awkward way of explaining things.

“I’m happy things worked out,” She said, placing an hand over her chest. “You seem much happier.”

“…I am.” He said, and the smile he showed was much more sincere. “I’m happy we talked, and everything is kinda, you know, better?” He rubbed the back of his neck, “Things aren’t exactly solved yet, but, uh, at least he’s talking to me?”

“More than talking,” Nanami pointed out, “You two are glued to each other again. I think.”

“I-I wouldn’t say glued…”

“I mean,” She tapped her chin, “You spent how much time together yesterday? The whole afternoon?”

“Three hours.” He mumbled. “And thirty minutes.”

“…Huh.”

“Shut up.”

“Well,” She held up her index, “Many said they saw you two touching more than often. And there was a lot of flirting.”

“N-No there wasn’t--!”

“Maybe it was an impression,” She lifted her shoulders in a shrug. “But still. It’s obvious that you’re really close. I mean it in a good sense, Hinata.”

“I-I know that…” Hajime mumbled, “Still… look, I don’t know how things are going to change, but…”

Albeit he knew Nanami wasn’t one to judge, Hajime still felt a little embarrassed by the way he smiled, so soft and mushy it was on the verge of being downright disgusting. Thing was, he was so full of positive feelings that these things were starting to pass in second place. Which, well, was kind of a first for him.

“I love him.” He said, “I really love him, Nanami.”

Nanami reached over, grabbing his hand and taking his fretful fingers within her covered ones. “I know you do. It’s cute.”

“It’s just -” He grimaced, “I’ve fucked this up a lot. I’ve made irrational decisions and ended up separating us more. I hurt a person I really, really care about… so…” He shook his head. “I want to do this properly. I’m just happy everything is okay between us, y’know?”

“I see.” She nodded. “So what are you going to do?”

“…Maybe nothing?” He shrugged. “I… I do want to ask him out. I want him to be my boyfriend.” He paused. “…Again?”

She chuckled. He smiled back.

“I think he will be.” He nodded. “No, I’m – I’m sure he will. I trust him. I’ll just wait for him to be ready.” A beat. “Is that stupid?”

“No,” She shook her head. “I think it’s nice. You’ve matured, Hinata.”

“A-Ah,” He lifted his shoulders. “Thanks?”

“I can’t talk for Komaeda,” Nanami hummed, “But it’s obvious that he cares about you too, a lot. He doesn’t act like this for anyone else. If not for Mioda, sometimes. So I think it’s reserved for the people he really, really cares for.”

“…He can be quite caring.” Hajime smiled, “And sweet. And, you know, kind. And he’s so selfless when…”

“Hinata. Planet earth.”

“A-Ah?” He blinked. Snapped out of the haze. Sighed out when she tried to muffle her laughter.

“I’m so lost.” He declared, took his head in his hands. He received a pat on his back for an answer.

“I think it’s really cute.” Nanami tittered, “Aw. Hinata is in love.”

“Get out of my cottage.”

“Nah.”

She waited for him to regather himself from the embarrassment of wearing his heart on his sleeve – he was working on it, okay? Leave him alone – and pulled her hand away, playing with the hem of her skirt distractingly.

“So,” She said, “You’re not going to make advances anymore?”

“I – ” He paused, frowned. “I don’t know?”

“Hmhm.”

“I mean,” He rubbed the back of his head. “What if I make him uncomfortable?”

“I don’t think you would.”

“But I might.” He shook his head. “I’ll try not to read too much between the lines. It’s drove me crazy before and it will again. I could just…” He paused, considering his words carefully. He himself wasn’t really sure of what he was deciding to do, either. “I could just wait for him to actually do something. Like, without overthinking it.”

“No offense,” She said, which anticipated she was going to say something that would, in fact, offend him. “But can you do that?”

“O-Of course I can!” He protested, and he was not pouting, thank you very much. “Who do you think I am?!”

“You just tend to overthink.” She shrugged, quite casual about it. “It’s just your thing.”

“J-Jeez, thanks…”

“Regardless, I’m proud of you.” She said sincerely, placing an hand on her chest. “I’m glad things are working out. And that you’ve made your own decisions by now.”

“…Yeah.” He smiled, “Thanks, Nanami.”

“Always.” She glanced outside the window, and her smile widened. “Speak about the devil.”

“Huh—?”

There was a knock on the door. Hajime cleared his throat, “It’s open!”

And of course it was Komaeda that opened it. He scanned the room till his eyes landed on the both of them, flashing a smile that would have made Hajime’s knees weak if it weren’t that he was still sitting down. He was really grateful for that all of the sudden.

“Hinata-kun, Nanami-san,” Komaeda waved, “Good morning.”

“Hi Komaeda.” Nanami waved back. “We saw each other at breakfast already.”

“I know, but it’s a splendid morning, don’t you think?” He raised his hands, “I feel particularly lucky today! Better appreciate it, don’t you think?”

Nanami chuckled. Hajime gazed at him a little too long.

He shook his head, “Did you need something?”

“Soda-kun wanted to speak to all of us.” Komaeda said, “I knew Nanami-san would be here so I volunteered to come get you. He specifically asked for you, anyway.”

“Ah, right.” Nanami nodded, “So he managed. I’m glad.”

Hajime tilted his head. “Managed what?”

“You’ll see,” She tutted, “Is Sonia already there?”

Komaeda nodded, “Yes, actually. She was waiting for you, Nanami-san.”

“Let’s get going, then,” She nodded, already standing up. She did wait at the doorstep for the two of them, but her legs were skipping in their steps. Hajime chuckled under his breath.

“Those two are such a nice couple,” Komaeda commented when Hajime reached him, the both of them closing the door behind them and following Nanami’s quick steps towards the cafeteria. “It’s such a hopeful sight, don’t you think so?”

“It’s nice to see Nanami so happy.” Hajime shrugged. “And Sonia is just like her. I think they’re a good match.”

Komaeda hummed, playing with a string of hair that fell on his shoulder.

“It surely is good when a couple just matches, yes?”

Hajime paused. Blinked in his direction. Komaeda wasn’t looking at him, too busy watching his own legs move.

“U-Uh,” He cleared his throat. “Y-Yeah. I guess so.”

“Two people that are made to be together are a waste separated after all,” Komaeda’s gaze was a little too careful when it shifted back to him. “Don’t you think, Hinata-kun?”

Seriously. Hajime was going to have a heart attack.

He was probably reading too much into this. Because this was Komaeda, and Komaeda always made these kinds of comments, like he always felt compelled to add his own opinion to everything that happened around him. Kinda annoying, really endearing.

Part of him was aching to say “Yup, you’re right!” And jump him, which would not be recommendable and would instead come off as desperate and creepy and he was not going to do it because the other part was much more rational and could actually manage to think straight.

He gulped, managing a trembling smile. “I-I guess so.”

Komaeda’s expression shifted slightly. He shook his head, and kept on walking.

Hajime told himself it was fine.

Soda was indeed waiting for them all in front of the table where they sometimes ate all together. His hands were on his hips and he looked so proud of himself, Hajime wondered just what they were about to get themselves into.

Hajime and Komaeda sat next to each other on the first two free chairs, while Nanami stood next to their classmate. They exchanged a few words while waiting for everyone to show up, a few still on their way.

“Hinata-kun,” Komaeda called for him, “Your collar is all messed up.”

“Eh—?” Hajime blinked. Looking down. “You say?”

He was about to adjust it himself, because, you know, he could do that. It’s a collar. Of a button up. It takes, like three movements to do it. And yet Komaeda still tittered, reaching over. “Yes, let me.”

His hands brushed against the quickly heating up skin of Hajime’s neck. He adjusted it with maybe a little more movements than Hajime himself would have used, but he might have been doing something more tidy, what did Hajime know. He was gonna give him the benefit of the doubt.

“There you go.” He chuckled, his fingers to his tie, which Hajime was so sure he’d done correctly, but maybe he was wrong. Like, he might have put it on the right verse. Or it might be too loose. What a good friend Komaeda was. Fixing it like that for him. And pulling at it. And laughing when Hajime let out a strangled noise.

He was losing his mind.

“Your tie looks nice,” Komaeda said, his head tilted, “Hinata-kun looks really handsome in formal clothing.”

“T-This—” He cleared his throat. Heavily. “I doubt this is considered, uh, formal—?”

“Is it not?”

“It’s—” casual, he wanted to say. You can wear button ups casually, you fucking idiot. But Komaeda’s fingers felt really nice stroking their knuckles against Hajime’s chest, and suddenly he couldn’t remember how to properly form words.

The sensation of dizziness lasted until Komaeda slid his hand all the way down his tie, lingering a bit on the last bit before fully letting him go. His hand hadn’t left Hajime’s body for a second. One could pass it as a normal gesture if it wasn’t for how fucking slow it had been. Or maybe Hajime actually, officially lost his mind and was now imagining things, which was unfortunately a possibility he had to take in.

Soda spoke up before Hajime could question anything else. He wasn’t sure if he was grateful or not.

“Listen up, everyone!” He said, clasping his hands together, rather loudly. Some were still speaking within each other.

“Guys.”

Still talking.

“Hey! I’m talking to you guys!”

Still speaking. Hajime felt Komaeda give a quiet snort behind his hand.

“Everyone,” Nanami said, “Would you mind giving us a second?”

Everyone shut up, turning towards her. Soda gaped at them, and clicked his tongue in irritation.

“Wow, thanks guys. Love you too.”

“Soda and I thought of something we could do on our last day here, tomorrow,” Nanami smiled, “He managed to find some fireworks near the military base in the fifth island, and to make them work as well.”

“You guys actually went there?” Owari scratched her ear. “Isn’t that place, like, super creepy?”

“Miss Yukizome was with us,” Nanami answered with a small shrug. “And it’s fine. We weren’t there for long.”

“We’re putting up a light show!” Soda nodded, pumping his fists. “I managed to get some working glowing sticks, too! We can go to the peak of the highest mountain on the central island, and spend some time up there!”

“But that place is suuuper up!” Saiyonji complained, pointing at Nidai and Owari, who were already looking at each other with grins that usually meant trouble, “Only the two sporty freaks would be willing to climb that up!”

“We’ll take a few breaks here and there,” Nanami promised, “We’ll depart in the afternoon and arrive at the peak by night.”

“It’s gonna be worth it.” Soda nodded, hands on his hips. “And,” He placed an hand on Nanami’s shoulder, who jumped at the sudden force, “Of course it was our class rep’s idea!”

“You’re ever so capable, Nanami-san!” Sonia gushed, which made Soda’s expression kind of falter. More in annoyance than real upset, so Hajime was sure he was gonna get over it. Soon enough.

“N-Now now,” Nanami dismissed, her cheeks slightly red, “I discussed it with miss Yukizome, and if that’s okay with everyone, Soda and I thought it might be a nice way to spend one last evening together.”

“I’m in!” Mioda clapped her hands, giggling, “Ibuki can offer some musical background!”

She scooted her chair closer to Tsumiki, who squealed.

“Aaaaand!” She poked her tongue out, “We could shoot the fireworks at midnight — has anyone told you how suuuuper romantic kissing at midnight is, Miki-chan?”

“EEEEK—” Tsumiki blushed. Violently. “I-I-I-I, u-u-uhm—”

“That’s for New Years, dumbass.” Kuzuryu crossed his arms. “That’s fucking stupid anyway. Where the fuck are we, middle school?”

Saiyonji snickered, “Aw, jealous you don’t have anyone to kiss?”

Kuzuryu rolled his eyes. “As if I need that.”

Hajime saw him bump legs against Pekoyama’s, however, who smiled faintly.

“Anyone can do what they want,” Nanami dismissed, waving her hand. “Doesn’t matter to me. The time we throw the fireworks doesn’t matter.”

“I’d love to take part in such a tradition!” Sonia flexed her arm, “I’ve never heard of it before! It’s rather exciting!”

“H-Hey—” Soda grumbled. “Some of us don’t have a partner, here…”

“Pffft. Fucking sore loser.”

“HEY—!”

Hajime felt something brush against his knuckles. Komaeda had shifted his position just enough so their hands were brushing under the table. If that was intentional, it hurt his head to merely think about it, staring at them like he’d seen a ghost.

“I think it is all a splendid idea, Nanami-san,” Komaeda smiled, like nothing was wrong. Like Hajime wasn’t about to faint right in front of them all. “Just as expected of our class president to have such wonderful ideas.”

“If that’s okay with everyone else, too…”

It wasn’t a surprise that she got completely positive replies. Hajime watched everyone start to talk about it — offering help to make it nicer, bickering within each other, hyping up an event they’d made up on the spot.

He hadn’t really stopped to think about how fast time had been passing lately. These two weeks barely felt like days passing one after the other, and Hajime could swear he’d just gotten out of the boat.

And yet at the same time a lot had happened, and within all the fun he’d been having with his friends, and the heavy weights in his chest brought by complicated situations, all leading to the warmth he felt for a person he’d so recently realized he had deep feelings for, Hajime had barely stopped to try and process everything that had been going down.

He thought, with a bitter smile, that maybe he was going to miss this. This island was pretty after all, and despite the fact that he kinda couldn’t wait to go back to the comfortability of his own bed, Hajime was definitely going to miss spending every day with his friends.

He glanced to his side. Well. With his friends, and him specifically.

He guessed he should make the most of these remaining days.

And then Hajime, who was having really normal thoughts and intentions for the rest of today, thank you very much, felt his arm get snatched in the grip that belonged to two cold, pale hands.

He turned, and Komaeda smiled at him in that way that drove him fucking insane, because he had no idea what to expect when he acted like that.

“Hinata-kun,” He said, “Have you ever been to the movie theater on the third island?”

“Uhm,” He blinked, managed a small smile, “Yeah. I went there with Nanami and the guys once. It wasn’t a really good movie.”

Komaeda chuckled, “It was so boring I wanted to gouge my eyes out.”

“…A little extreme but yeah, that.” He rubbed the back of his head. “Why’s that?”

“We should go.” He said, already pulling him out of the restaurant.

“U-Uh—” Hajime faltered in his steps, his arm slightly hurting with the way Komaeda was pulling at it, struggling to keep up with the very much sudden rush of energy. “I thought you said it was boring—?”

“There might be another movie!” Komaeda said, all cheerful for some fucking reason. “And anyways, even if there wasn’t, everything is so much more fun with Hinata-kun.”

Yeah. Right. Okay. He had to clutch his chest really hard to stop his heartbeat from skyrocketing. Komaeda was probably trying to kill him.

“I-If you say so…” Hajime mumbled, kinda having troubles when it came to remembering how to breathe. He wondered when Komaeda had made everything disappear. Why was there him and him only? Wasn’t that a little dangerous? He didn’t know he had that ability in the first place.

“We could get something to eat,” Komaeda wondered, “Or— Careful, Hinata-kun, you’re falling down the stairs.”

“U-Uh.”

“Hinata-kun—?”

“Eh—?” He blinked twice. Snapped out of it. Fuck, he just had to look like an idiot, did he not.

Judging by the way Komaeda chuckled under his breath, Hajime supposed his guess was correct.

He managed to keep it normal for like… a while. They talked a bit during their trip there, Komaeda mostly doing the most when it came to stirring up conversation, pointing out stupid things that they both knew already, but was never called out because, unfortunately, Hajime loved talking to him, and shutting him down would mean ending it, and he didn’t want that.

Hajime started to consider if mental gymnastics was an actual thing that might be recognized as an Ultimate talent. Because he surely had to do a lot of it whenever Komaeda got a little too close, or brushed his knuckles against his hand, a lot, or made jabs that sounded a lot like flirting but also kinda not. And Hajime had to convince himself he was looking too much into it, because he was trying to be fucking respectful and was all willing to wait for Komaeda to be ready before they had another what the fuck are we talk, and these weren’t signs worthy being read too much on. Probably. Maybe Hope’s Peak will read his mind and see all the effort he was making and offer him a place in the main course. Or maybe not. That’s not how it works. Why was he still thinking about it.

He wished, for the nth time since they’d first met, that Komaeda could be a little more clear when it came to actions and words. He kept going with his whole “Hey look I’m touching you! Just kidding, I’m not. Get away from me weirdo” thing that he’d been keeping up for a long while now, and he wasn’t certain wether this was for revenge or not anymore. Maybe he was just like that. Komaeda was awkward and loved to fuck with his mind for no fucking reason at all. Look who Hajime just had to go and fall in love with. He mentally facepalmed.

Thing was, the movie theater was an automatic machine. The moment they sat down — next to each other, while there was an entire room with free seats, right at the ones that were the closest, because why the fuck not — and selected a movie from the small tablets connected to the seats the movie started on its own.

What it was about, he wasn’t too sure. Just like the other one they’d seen, this one was pretty much of a mess.

At some point, he heard Komaeda laugh. He wasn’t looking at the screen, however, his hand tangled in his light hair.

“This movie is so terrible,” He giggled, shifting so his head could rest on Hajime’s shoulder. His heart jumped.

Hajime cleared his throat. “I’ve lost track of what is happening already.”

“I guess that’s the good thing of only being the two of us,” Komaeda considered, “We can speak freely without bothering anyone else. And hence criticize every detail about this objective disaster of a movie.”

“I see someone thinks positively now.” Hajime laughed, and despite himself, placed his head on top of Komaeda’s too. That was normal, right? He hoped he didn’t pass as bold.

Komaeda merely shifted so he could press closer. He lifted his shoulders in a small shrug, flashing his usual carefree smile.

“Hinata-kun is a really good influence.” He said, “Albeit you’re always pouting all the time…. hm, I wonder how it works!”

“Mind your words, you.” Hajime poked his arm. Komaeda grabbed the finger, shifted so they could hold hands. It was probably accidental.

“Aw, can’t handle a little teasing?” He mused, his head tilted. “Hinata-kun gets embarrassed really easily, does he not?”

“T-That’s—” He felt his face flush. Shit. “That has nothing to do with this—!”

“Oh, but it does!” Komaeda laughed, gripped him tighter so Hajime couldn’t pull away if he tried. Well, he could, it’s not like Komaeda had all that much strength to hold him back, but he never said he wanted to either. Hajime was a man of free will, you see. “You always respond so funny when it comes to criticism!”

“N-No I do not—” He shook his head furiously. “Watch the movie, Komaeda.”

Komaeda groaned, “But this movie sucks.”

“You’re the one that asked me to watch it.”

“So I can’t even ask Hinata-kun to hang out?” His expression was close to a pout. Too bad Hajime could see right through all that bullshit, as it was obvious his was mockery rather than actual upset. “Cruel. Hinata-kun is so cruel, albeit I shouldn’t be all that surprised considering your recent behavior—”

“Komaeda!” Hajime clasped a hand in front of his mouth. “That’s it. Shut up.”

Komaeda raised an eyebrow. Looked at him in the eyes while he didn’t think twice before licking his palm. Like, seriously. What was wrong with him.

“K-Komaeda—!” Hajime shrieked, snatched his palm away and rushed to wipe it on the seat next to them, “Ew, fuck, don’t do that!”

Komaeda burst out laughing. The sight was so cute it almost made Hajime forget what he was mad about. Keyword, almost. He did not forget this time. Progress.

“Hinata-kun is such a prude.”

“I’m a— You licked my palm!”

“It wasn’t even that bad…” Komaeda mumbled, sighing out dramatically, “You’re acting as if you’ve never tasted my spit before.”

Hajime’s whole face flamed. He was sure he was about to catch on fire.

“W-What the fuck—?!” He stuttered, “Don’t say it like that!”

“But it’s true…”

“N-Not that way— Stop smiling!”

“See?” Komaeda leaned his chin on his palm. “Hinata-kun is so easy to rile up.”

“You— You’re—” He shook his head, stood back up. “W-Whatever…”

“Aaaw,” Komaeda tilted his head, “Where are you going?”

“Anywhere that isn’t here.”

“But Hinata-kun,” Komaeda lamented, grabbing his arm, “The movie isn’t over yet!”

“The movie sucks.”

“Yes, but it will suck more if you’re not here…” He pulled a few times. “Come on. Come ooon.”

“You’re spending too much time with Mioda.” He grumbled, but still sat back down. Komaeda smiled with his eyes closed.

“Thanks, Hinata-kun,” He tittered, “Someone like me, receiving this much kindness from Hinata-kun… Ah. I did feel so lucky today.”

“You’re always lucky…” He mumbled, giving him a look. “What does that mean, anyway? Do you feel luck and bad luck coming by? What’s there, a radar?”

“Don’t I just wish that…” He laughed, “But, no, Hinata-kun, that’s not what I meant. How do I say this…” He hummed, “You know mine is a luck cycle, yes?”

He nodded. “You talk about that all the time.”

“Well,” Komaeda said, “Sometimes I merely predict it. If I had a few consecutive good days, I just know something terrible is coming by. And vice versa, obviously. If I’ve been having the worst time for a while, I just know something wonderful will be happening soon enough!”

“Were these days that bad?” Hajime asked, leaning with his fist against his cheek. “I thought you were having a nice time.”

Komaeda looked at him up and down. His eyebrows were arched.

“Are you the one telling me you have no idea why I would ever be having a bad time, Hinata-kun?”

“I—” He winced. “Sorry, I wasn’t talking about—”

“I know.” Back to smiling he was. “I’m just joking.”

“Y-You—” Hajime sat up straight. “Could you stop?!”

“Nope.”

“Ugh..” He sank back in his seat. Komaeda giggled once more.

“As I was saying,” He hummed, “I had a feeling today would be a good day.”

“A feeling, huh.” He grumbled. “What, are you a sensitive now?”

“Hinata-kun gets so grumpy every time…” Komaeda sighed out. “Ah, what a pain…”

“S-Stop that…”

“Regardless, yes, I have a feeling.” He smiled, “I thought today might be a pretty nice day.”

He leaned a little closer. Just enough so he could lean his arms on the small armrest within their seats, his hair tickling Hajime’s shoulder.

“After all,” He mused, “Any moment spent with Hinata-kun makes me feel so good, does it not?”

Hajime stared at him. At his eyes, barely visible with the movie’s flashes contouring his face in a way that accentuated the right ride of his face. At his smile, at the unreadable yet somewhat soft expression he was showing him, and the way he was maybe coming closer and maybe not, because Hajime could swear he could feel his breathing a little closer to his mouth, and yet his head felt kinda dizzy, so maybe his judgment was clouded. It probably was. He swallowed, gaze flicking to Komaeda’s lips.

“I-I—” He choked out, “Really?”

“Really.”

Komaeda took his hand.

“Hinata-kun…”

There was a loud explosion coming from the screen. When he said loud, he meant they both jumped in their seats, as that was what always happened when you don’t pay attention to what’s happening on screen. Hajime placed an hand on his chest, taking a heavy exhale.

He was almost grateful.

“J-Jeez.” He rubbed the back of his head. “What’s even going on—?”

Komaeda was grimacing. He was obviously annoyed. Probably due the loud noise, cause he really hated loud noises. Not for anything else. What was there to be annoyed about anyway. Hajime felt like he was going crazy. He was real close to it, anyway.

He turned to the screen with obvious disinterest. Komaeda leaned back in his seat, a little further away from Hajime.

“Some sort of fight, it seems?” He yawned. “I’m dreadfully bored.”

“Yeah,” He shrugged. “It’s kinda lame.”

“Incredibly lame.”

“And kind of a cliché too.” He grimaced. “I can bet he’s gonna—”

The lead saved some girl from falling — where the fuck was she falling for, he couldn’t tell — and caught her in his arms. Somehow. And of course they kissed right after.

“…Knew it.”

“Excellent prediction, Hinata-kun!” Komaeda clasped his hands together. “Are you the hidden Ultimate analyst for lame movies by any chance?”

“Fuck off.”

Hajime was sure they only stayed till the end because Komaeda at the very least tried to make comments and jokes about it every now and then. He made it a little more pleasing — then again, he made everything more pleasing by simply being there. God that was such an embarrassing thought. He needed to get a grip.

Hajime did notice, unfortunately, that Komaeda just wouldn’t let go of that armrest. His hand was laid onto it, sideways for some reason, just out of reach and merely begging to be grabbed, his free one neatly placed on his lap.

Hajime stared at it like it were a ghost. He played with his own fingers, because, well, this could mean anything like it could mean nothing. Komaeda might have, for example, some sort of cramp and decided to rest his hand there. It didn’t have to mean he wanted Hajime to grab it. Or, maybe it wasn’t intended, yet he could still take it. But that would seem kind of creepy, would it not? Hajime himself would scoot away from unwanted advances, and getting rejected right now would probably never have him recover again.

His hand stayed there. Hajime forced himself to stay put.

If he wanted a chance with Komaeda, he needed to respect his wishes as much as he possibly could. He’d wait for him to make a first move. He could do that. Totally.

The movie ended as lamely as it’d started, and by the end of it, Komaeda stretched his arms. Hajime breathed a small sigh, if for relief or disappointment, he wasn’t all that certain.

“Well,” Komaeda said, “That was disappointing.”

“Yeah,” Hajime cleared his throat. “It really was.”

Komaeda smiled, despite it all. It was good to see him smile.

Hajime checked his phone. “It’s almost noon. We should go back before the others come look for us.”

“Aw,” Komaeda watched him stand up with a pout. “Does Hinata-kun not wish to be seen with me?”

“Quit that.” He grumbled. “Come on, stand up.”

“Hmhm, yessir.”

The two of them got out of the theater while criticizing every single detail they could remember about the film, with Komaeda doing most of the talking, as he was suddenly some sort of cinematography expert it seemed, and Hajime would have loved to call him out on his bullshit and made up snob-like attitude if it wasn’t that it made him seem so endearing. His hands waved in the air without any real meaning when he was really taken into what he was talking about, he noted, often using gestures to accentuate his speech and underlying a concept he wanted to stress further.

He watched them move as if he were hypnotized. They were, well, very nice. Komaeda had nice hands. Then again every part of him was even more than just nice. Hajime wondered just how truly pathetic he sounded when he thought stuff like that.

They crossed the bridge and arrived right in front of the center island when Komaeda let out a small moan of displeasure. Hajime frowned.

“Are you okay?” He said, noticing how he gripped his head with a grimace.

“Ah, yes.” Komaeda smiled apologetically. “My head is pulsing due the loud noises inside.”

“…Oh.” He approached, placed an hand on his shoulder, which immediately relaxed. “Do you need some pills?”

“No,” Komaeda shook his head, “I’d rather not bother Tsumiki-san once more.” A sigh, “I’d just really like some peace and quiet, however…”

“I—” He paused. “Do you want me to leave?”

“Oh, no.” Komaeda frowned. “Why would I?”

“Uhm.” A pause. “You said you want some silence—?”

He could swear Komaeda looked almost irritated. It was probably due his headache.

“I’d like it if we could avoid the restaurant today.” He crossed his arms, averting his gaze. “I’d never dare criticize my classmates, as they have all the rights to spend their time doing whatever they want, but they do tend to be quite… hm. Loud.”

“I guess they do, huh…” Hajime hummed, “It’s okay. I’ll tell them you’re not feeling well.”

Komaeda’s eye twitched. Hajime frowned. He wasn’t sure if headaches often made your eyes hurt too. Now that he thought about it, it was probably a nervous tick.

“Actually, it’s kind of spinning, too…” Komaeda sighed, a little harder. “I’m afraid I’m going to collapse if I’m on my own for too long…”

Hajime blinked. “What— Listen, I’m kinda worried, maybe we should really call Tsum—”

“Hinata-kun,” Komaeda interrupted him, tone quite sharp with how sugar coated his smile was. “Would it be okay with you if we had lunch together? Just the two of us?”

Hajime clasped his mouth shut. Komaeda was still holding his head, one foot swaying back and forth against the ground, and he looked kinda annoyed. Maybe he just wanted a quiet meal. He could give him that.

He managed a small, somewhat awkward smile, nodding. “Uh. Of course.”

“Wonderful,” Komaeda grabbed his arm once more, to stabilize himself. Probably. “We could grab something from the supermarket, yes? That place seems to have almost anything that the heart desires.”

“I guess so…” Hajime rubbed the back of his head. “I don’t really go there often.”

“Bad mistake, Hinata-kun…” Komaeda shook his head. “It really has anything. I even found a survival knife on one of the shelves!”

“You found — why would you ever get a knife?!”

In the end, they made their way to the supermarket. Hajime soon noticed, with big relief, that Komaeda’s steps were steady and he wasn’t indeed on the verge of collapsing. At least that was good. He hoped his headache would pass as well, soon.

They got two packs of noodles, Komaeda suggesting they made them with the kettle he had in his cottage — “I took that as well from here, Hinata-kun, you’re always so surprised for nothing…” — and Hajime just nodded, much more focused in holding him so he wouldn’t trip and make anything worse. But they managed to arrive all in one piece, without that many struggles, so that was positive.

Komaeda kicked his shoes off and sat on his bed cross legged, encouraging him to do the exact same. Hajime left his own shoes by the door, sat on the ground next to him.

Komaeda’s jaw clenched a bit.

Hajime frowned, “Is your head getting worse?”

“What?”

“You look frustrated.”

Komaeda smiled. It was a little tight. “Don’t you worry about me, Hinata-kun. Let’s focus on eating.”

He then let himself fall on the ground, adjusting his position before Hajime could even just think about stressing about him falling on the ground. He pulled his knees up, leaned his arms on them.

“I’m already feeling a lot better.” He said, smiling, “I must thank you, Hinata-kun.”

Hajime chuckled, a little awkwardly. “I mean, it’s not like I did anything…”

“But you’ve been so selfless,” He scooted a bit closer. “Giving up eating with your friends to take care of someone like me…”

“D-Don’t say it like that…” He gulped, “It’s the bare minimum to do for someone I care about.”

Komaeda’s cheeks darkened significantly. He’d noticed he got into that state a lot, if someone showed him genuine care. It was as cute as it was a little sad.

“Aw,” Komaeda forced out, “You’re ever so sweet.”

“N-Now now—” Hajime raised his hands, “It’s really not—”

“We should eat!” Komaeda then decided, out of fucking nowhere, standing up quite quickly for someone with a headache. “I’ll go get the kettle.”

Hajime watched him rustle within different things he kept near the bookshelf. He took that moment to calm down his beating heart, closing his eyes and clutching his chest.

This was proving itself to be a little harder than he’d thought. He was still keen on trying to make Komaeda feel as comfortable as he could, but fuck, nobody told him how hard it’d be to keep himself in control when Komaeda acted like that. Which was fucking disgusting because his friend needed time and care and help and Hajime had absolutely no right misinterpreting his intentions like that.

He opened his eyes a bit, listened to the quivering in his chest. He looked back at Komaeda, the way he looked so at peace with himself while pouring some water into the kettle he for some reason appeared to have ready in his cottage. Hajime smiled slightly. Komaeda was so easy in the eyes, and Hajime loved him a little too much.

He wondered if he’d ever be able to tell him just how much. He wasn’t keen on admitting just how badly he’d held himself from spilling everything he felt and telling him how fucking crazy he drove him, kiss every inch of him and beg him to give him once chance to demonstrate everything he felt. He wondered if he’d be able to before this trip ended.

Probably not, however, he lamented with a bitter smile, given there were about two days before they sailed. And they still weren’t nearly close to reaching the needed level of understanding, so he had to stay put. Perhaps maybe during the summer Komaeda would contact him, and they’d be able to see each other over a cup of coffee or anything for that matter, and have a proper discussion about what the both of them wanted from each other. Hajime wanted to trust this. He wanted to trust Komaeda.

Komaeda then sat back next to him, passing him a warm container wrapped up in a small towel so he couldn’t burn himself.

“Here you go,” He smiled. “Careful, it’s quite hot.”

“It’s fine.” Hajime shook his head, taking it in his hands. “We need to wait some minutes anyway.”

“Hmhm…” Komaeda shrugged, “I don’t mind. I’m not that hungry.”

Hajime gave him a look. He’d seen Komaeda eat that morning, not that much, just a few pieces of toast that he’d forced down once Hajime had given him a stare from across the room. It’s not like he wanted to force him to swallow down food or anything — but he was kinda glad that Komaeda was eating a little more. Real glad. Like, a lot. Even if it took some (forcing) convincing.

Still, that had been lots of hours ago, and so he snorted.

“Don’t be like that.” He grumbled, “You need to eat.”

“I am eating.”

“Y-Yeah, but — whatever.” He grimaced, “I’m just saying.”

Komaeda hummed. He scooted a little closer, their arms brushing together.

“Is Hinata-kun worried about me?” He mused, still with that infuriating smile on. “How endearing. I’m flattered to levels unknown to mankind.”

Hajime snorted. “Shut up and eat.”

Once their meals were ready, they started eating quietly. Hajime hoped the silence would help Komaeda’s headache, if it wasn’t already over. He already looked more at peace with himself, he gladly noted, taking his time with each bite he took.

Komaeda tapped the chopsticks he was holding on the corner of the container he was holding. He hummed for a bit, placed it back on the ground. He scooted closer up until he was actually leaning against him, causing Hajime to jolt and accidentally spill some of his food on the ground.

“H-Hey—”

“Thank you for eating with me, Hinata-kun…” Komaeda mused. “Your company is the best medicine one could ask for.”

“I-I—” His face flamed. Like any other person’s would, seriously. Don’t judge him there. He tried to smile, “Uhm, of course.”

“Hinata-kun,” He said once again, stressing over the last syllable of his name, “Do you have the slightest idea of how much your actions mean to me?”

“W-Where is this coming from?” He stuttered, trying to shift so Komaeda’s weight wouldn’t be entirely leaned against him. Not that he was that heavy, really, it just had him threaten to spill over the rest of his noodles if he wasn’t able to sit upright.

“Nothing.” Komaeda pouted. “Can’t I even show my appreciation for Hinata-kun, now?

Hajime briefly wondered if this was how Komaeda acted with all of his friends. He couldn’t really see him lean against Mioda nor say things like that to her. Maybe because she was an Ultimate, and Komaeda would have rathered shoot himself than ever bother an Ultimate.

He probably felt more comfortable because they’d done this sort of thing before. And, he guessed with a small quiver, that the mess of feelings they had for each other did the trick, too.

“I-I guess you can.” He patted Komaeda’s arm. “I appreciate you too.”

Komaeda smiled wider. He leaned over much more evidently, basically trying to sneak on his lap.

“K-Komaeda!” Hajime protested, moving the bowl away. “I’m eating—!”

“You can still eat.” He said, “Just let me lean over, my head is killing me…”

“T-There’s a bed right here, you know…” He mumbled, face red. Why was he saying that. Of course he wanted Komaeda to lean on him. Fucking idiot. “And pillows.”

“Hmmm…” Komaeda hugged him, albeit a little awkwardly, head placed on his chest. “But there’s another wonderful pillow right here…”

Hajime stuttered, completely incapable of doing anything else but let the container thump on the ground, his hand held uselessly in the air as Komaeda downright cupped one of his pecs.

Hajime swatted his shoulder. “W-What the fuck are you doing, c’mon—!”

“What?” He smiled, “Hajime’s chest is so very soft.”

“Get up.”

“What if I do not?”

“Komaeda, seriously—”

“I’m merely joking…” He sighed out, “But it is a rather nice pillow.”

“Komaeda.”

“Larger than the average I must say.” He nodded, like that was a perfectly reasonable thing to say. “Soft to the touch. I can barely fit one side in my hand—”

“Up.”

Komaeda did not get up, but he laughed, and let his chest go out of his hand. He shifted so it could slide against his back, fully embracing him. Hajime let out a sigh, one hand on Komaeda’s waist and the other on the back of his head. He was glad he could at least do that without combusting, with how used he’d come to be with it.

“Are you feeling a little better?” Hajime mumbled.

“Hm?”

“Your headache?”

“Ah. That.” Komaeda shrugged. “It’s slightly better.”

“I’m glad.”

“Surely…”

Komaeda yawned quietly. He shifted a little more, laying more comfortably on him.

“You see,” He mumbled, “I didn’t sleep all that well last night.”

“I see.” Hajime mumbled, slowly threading his fingers in his hair. “Another nightmare?”

“Not really,” He shook his head. “I merely couldn’t fall asleep without Hinata-kun’s arms around me…”

Oh. Okay. That was. Hm.

Hajime was so sure Komaeda could hear the overwhelming skip in his heart.

“T-That…” He gulped. “That’s— Are you joking?”

“Why would I joke about that…” He gave him a look. “I’m deadly serious. I felt so safe with Hinata-kun… Being without him now just doesn’t feel the same…”

“I—” Great. Yeah. That was great. Hajime surely wasn’t going insane right now. No, no, that was totally a normal thing to say. Seriously. He was so normal about that.

He wasn’t sure if Komaeda was being serious. Or if he was gonna be made fun of, which maybe he deserved, maybe not, Hajime suspected he wasn’t really in the place to decide that right now.

He cleared his throat. He leaned a little better with his back against Komaeda’s bed, embracing him a little tighter to hide his blushing face in his hair.

“I-I’m here now…” He said, feeling Komaeda exhale against him. “You can close your eyes if you want.”

Komaeda’s shoulders relaxed. He shifted so their faces could meet. They were incredibly close, actually, his lips only a few inches from Hajime’s.

“You’re sweet, Hinata-kun.”

His head was spinney. Hajime was feeling slightly dizzy due the proximity already, his lips practically tingling with the raw need of leaning his head forward. He wanted to kiss Komaeda so badly it made his entire body ache, actually, as if he needed it to survive, like he was privatizing himself of a basic life source.

If he did kiss him right now, would it really be that terrible? If placed their lips together, let himself taste and touch those chapped lips and feel the confused mixture of flavors coming from the mere meal they shared, if he held him close so there would be no possibility of pulling away, would it be as catastrophic as he feared?

Komaeda felt so good, nestled like that in his arms. It felt right, like that was his spot, always had been, and Hajime kind of agreed — his body just seemed fit to hold Komaeda on top, and Komaeda’s arms were long and thin enough to embrace him fully. Hajime wasn’t an hopeless romantic by any means, truly, he didn’t believe in cliches, but the thought that Komaeda might be right for him, that they were made to be with each other, it made him feel slightly fuzzy.

Hajime parted his lips. Komaeda’s eyes were soft.

Sleepy. Because he was tired, unfocused. Certainly not seeking any sort of physical contact.

He shook his head quickly.

“You could take a nap if you want,” He conceded. “I don’t mind staying here for a while.”

Komaeda seemed to deflate. Huh.

“Ah.” He clicked his tongue. “Are you certain?”

“Uhm. Of course?”

“I see.”

Komaeda shrugged. He leaned back on Hajime’s chest, relaxing a bit in his grip. Hajime tried to not overthink it, but Komaeda’s tone was a little dry.

Thing was, Komaeda must have seriously been tired, because he didn’t take long to actually close his eyes and doze off on top of him. His breathing soon became more regular, and if he listened carefully, Hajime could hear a soft snoring. It was cute, and it hit him that he never truly saw Komaeda asleep before.

He smiled, feeling a little mushy. He passed some time simply caressing his hair, moving them out of his face, trying to keep his laughter quiet when he made soft noises in response to the touch.

Hajime wasn’t really sure if it was possible, but he felt like he’d fallen for Komaeda all over again.

He didn’t think he would ever be able to stop saying how dear this boy was to him. Hajime got a little more comfortable, almost drunk on the unmistakable smell that was just so Komaeda, since it filled his senses completely, impossible to get rid of. He thought for a moment that, if his clothes picked up the smell of him, if it were to stick to the tissue of his shirt, he actually would not have minded at all.

With a smile, Hajime pressed a kiss on the top of that mess of soft white hair, and closed his eyes.

It was the consistent vibrations coming from his pocket that awoke him. Hajime let out a small groan, quiet enough as to not sound overbearing, barely registering where he was, the position he was in, and the still present weight on top of him.

He patted around his leg until he met his pocket and the pressure of the device he’d placed inside. He took it out, his eyes wincing at the light coming from the screen as he merely read Soda was calling him.

He let out a small sigh, bringing his phone to his ear. “Hello–?”

“Hinata!” Soda spoke in his ear, and he winced at the volume. Not recommendable if you’d just woke up, believe him. “You there?”

“What is it..?” He mumbled, trying to shift and realizing he could not. Merely because of Komaeda still fast asleep onto him. Hajime smiled despite it all, passing an hand through his hair.

“You gotta help me out, man.” Soda said, “I’m setting up some stuff for tomorrow. I could use another pair of hands.”

“Uhm,” Hajime looked down once more. He lifted Komaeda’s face gently, noticed he was still fast asleep. His eyelashes cast soft shadows onto his cheekbones, his face completely relaxed with sleep. He felt his heart become a little fuller. “Do I have to?”

“What does that even mean?!”

“Uh,” He let out, very intelligently. Really. He must be some sort of Ultimate debater. “Can’t it wait?”

“I’m working on it now.” Soda stressed, “Why? What are you doing that’s so important?”

Hajime looked at Komaeda once more. He pressed a small kiss on his forehead.

“Nothing, leave it.” He sighed out. “I’ll reach you.”

“Sweet! Talk to you later.”

Hajime hung up. He placed his phone on the ground, both arms coming back to wrap around Komaeda’s frame. He couldn’t stop his lips form peppering all over his cheek, until he heard a soft groan and a stir, and he moved away.

“Hey,” He mumbled. “Sorry to wake you up. I didn’t want to move you.”

Komaeda blinked, having to rub his eyes to adjust his vision. “You stayed?”

“I fell asleep too.” He confessed, chuckling a bit. “Soda called, however. I need to go.”

“Ah. I see.” Komaeda nodded. He tried to sit up, frowned. “Uhm. Maybe you should…”

“Huh?” He noted his arms were still holding him still. He flushed, raising them immediately. “R-Right. Sorry.”

Komaeda sat up. He was still on his lap, his eyes still heavy with sleep, and when he smiled, he looked so cute Hajime had to resist the urge to tackle him on the ground. Screw Soda, screw anyone else, he needed this boy so bad.

He shook the thought away. Now was really not the time.

“I’ll go then,” He cleared his throat. “Sorry I can’t stay longer.”

“It’s merely alright,” Komaeda sighed out, “As much as I’d love to, there is no way I could ever keep Hinata-kun all to myself forever.”

“R-Right…” He flushed, slowly standing up, his hands lingering on Komaeda’s shoulders. He rose with him, keeping his own hands on Hajime’s arms. “So, uhm… See you later?”

“I’ll count on it.”

He smiled. “Bye.”

Komaeda grabbed his face the moment Hajime turned to leave. He pressed himself close, left a lingering kiss on his cheek.

He then let go almost as fast as he’d grabbed him, waving enthusiastically. “Goodbye, Hinata-kun!”

Hajime was so sure his entire face was flushed red. It took him a hot minute to remember what his name was, anyway, and how to stumble his way out of the cottage.

His back and legs kind of ached from falling asleep in such an uncomfortable position, his neck drenched in sweat due being pressed to another person for so long. His eyes were still heavy and taken by sleep, and yet while Hajime walked, he felt pretty good. More than, he felt great. Being next to Komaeda really did help out with his mood, he found.

By shooting him a quick text, he soon learnt Soda was hanging by the military base. He was sat cross-legged on the ground, pieces of whatever he was doing spread all over the ground, his hands and chin, somehow, dirty with oil and dust.

“Uh,” Hajime blinked, “What are you doing?”

“OH!” Soda jumped, smiled wide, “Hinata, you made it! Sit down, c’mon.”

“Soda, I don’t know the first thing about machines.” He reminded him, sitting down besides him anyway. “If you need help I’m gonna be quite useless.”

“Nah, it’s fine, you just — hold this for a sec—” He passed him some sort of can. “I just need someone to hold these things and connect a few wires while I have my hands busy.”

“You… can’t place them on the ground —?”

“Of course not, dude!” He waved the objects he was holding. “This is delicate stuff, y’know! And I gotta access most of it like, stat!”

“…Sure.” He cleared his throat. “If you say so. What are you even doing?”

“Automatic lunch.” He said, all proudly. “It’s going to be connected to a tire, so it can lunch even if nobody is paying that much attention to it, at the time I decide.”

Hajime smiled slightly. “That’s kinda cool.”

“That’s super cool, dude!” Soda patted his back. With the object still in hand. Ouch. “And you get to assist to the making of my project! Aren’t you happy?”

“Super happy.” He rolled his eyes, albeit lovingly. “Just get to work.”

“Grumpy, aren’t we?” Soda laughed, using the screwdriver to do whatever the hell he was doing to the object he was holding. “You sounded sleepy when I called you.”

“Yeah, I had just woken up.” Hajime shrugged. “I took a nap.”

“You weren’t at lunch though,” Soda gave him a look. “You okay?”

“Of course. I was just, uh, hanging out. With Komaeda.”

“Hm.”

Soda plucked his lips. He let out a hum, messing around with his creation for a few seconds.

“So.” He said, “You two are hanging out again.”

Hajime blushed. Just a bit. “Is that a problem?”

“No,” A pause. “Yes—? I mean, fuck, you said… well, I thought it was complicated.”

Hajime grimaced, rubbing the back of his head. “It is kind of complicated…”

“I mean, fuck—” He said, once more, scratching his cheek. “Hinata, you said… I mean, I thought he’d rejected you.”

“Y-Yeah— No, I mean— uh—” He cleared his throat. This was getting embarrassing quite quickly. “It’s. Uhm. Complicated. As I said.”

“Such as?”

“D-Don’t worry about it.”

“Look, dude, I’m gonna be frank about this,” Soda pointed the handle of the screwdriver towards him. “It’s starting to feel like you don’t trust me.”

Hajime stared at him for a few seconds.

“Excuse me?”

Soda faltered. He lowered his hand, and for a moment, he actually looked a little hurt.

“I-I mean, I thought we were friends. Like, best friends!” He raised his hands, “A-And I know I run my mouth a lot, especially when it comes to Komaeda, but uh — You can count on me, y’know that!”

“Of course I do—” Hajime hesitated, “It’s just kinda complicated, and — explaining it is getting repetitive. And kind of boring. And stupid.”

Soda grimaced.

“Hinata,” He said, “I don’t care. I-I just don’t like to be left in the dark.”

Hajime matched the expression perfectly. He played with the object in his hands, thinking carefully about his next words.

It’s not like he didn’t trust Soda. He was a dear friend. He did indeed tend to run his mouth a lot but he wasn’t the type to judge that heavily. He was definitely going to freak out and have an internal panic session like the issue regarded him personally, but with a little reality check, he’d be grounded soon enough.

Most of all, Hajime knew he just wanted to help. He cared about him, just like he did, and only wanted what he thought would be best for him. He was a good friend.

Hajime took a deep breath. “Look… Komaeda and I— it’s complicated, but we care about each other.” He shrugged, “A-And it’s embarrassing, but… I think it’s kinda obvious that I love him, and uhm…”

Hajime felt himself get a little fuzzier. He rubbed the back of his head, closing his eyes. “He feels something for me, too, I think. I told you it’s complicated.”

Soda didn’t answer immediately. He messed around a little more, let out a sigh.

“Look, just — be careful, okay?” Soda said, “I’m tryna, like… I don’t wanna judge your taste.”

“T-Taste—?”

“I mean. Dude. Komaeda.”

“Quit that.”

“That’s what I meant!” Soda pointed a finger at him, “I’m tryna, like, not judge you nor your man cause I know you’re gonna get pissed at me and I don’t want that.”

Hajime waved his hand, “W-Whatever, I just…” He sighed out, “I don’t really wanna tell the whole story, but — I’m okay, alright? I’ll be okay.”

Soda stared at him. He then shook his head, but he was smiling. “Pass me the wrench.”

“Yes sir.”

He stayed with Soda until about dawn. The sun was just beginning to set when the mechanic stretched his arms and snapped his bones, declaring he was good for today, and he could keep going tomorrow. He offered Hajime to help him out again. Safe to say he declined.

He’d noticed almost immediately that Komaeda was missing from dinner, too. He didn’t go search for him because Nanami had already sat him down to show him a new level she was trying to beat, and ditching her for another guy felt kinda shitty if he were to be honest. He merely hoped he wasn’t feeling sick once again.

He could barely believe that tomorrow was going to be his last day here. Time surely did fly.

The trip was about to end and he couldn’t tell if he was still taken or not. He grimaced a bit at the thought. He wasn’t going to lie and say he didn’t wish to do anything about it — how he instead would have loved to pull Komaeda aside and ask for one single day on this beautiful island as a couple.

But saying it frankly, he still doubted Komaeda would want that. And he was trying to be a better person, was he not? He’d do anything to make amends with his past actions, after all. Even if it meant feeling his heart squeeze tightly in his chest over and over again.

Perhaps they’d see each other through these following months. Maybe Komaeda would reach out, and ask how he was doing. And Hajime could have invited him over to his place, his parents were never home anyway, and they could just talk, or stare at each other for that matter, or just exist in the same room without speaking — he was sure he’d be perfectly content with that, too.

He patted Nanami’s shoulder and said goodnight to his friends when he finished eating, standing up before everyone else. Truly, he did want to go and find out where Komaeda was, just to see if he was doing okay. Now that he thought about it, maybe that was considered overbearing behavior. Maybe he was being too protective. Wasn’t that what a good boyfriend would do? Except they were not boyfriends. What was he even talking about anymore. He really needed to get a grip.

Turns out he didn’t need to overthink this at all, because when he turned a corner, he noticed Komaeda standing right in front of Hajime’s cottage, his back against it, hugging a pillow in his hands. His eyes were closed, his hair a little messy.

Hajime felt his heart jump in his throat.

“Komaeda,” He walked towards him, struggling to remember how to breathe correctly when his eyes stared right back at him. “You weren’t at dinner earlier.”

“Ah, yes,” He looked sideways. “I wasn’t all that hungry at all.”

“…I see.” Hajime rubbed the back of his head. “You already know how I feel about that.”

“I do.” Komaeda smiled. “I was trying to get some sleep, but… ah.” He shrugged. “You could say I had a nightmare.”

Hajime frowned. He walked a little closer, placed an hand on his arm. “Another?”

“Hmhm.” Komaeda paused for a bit. “I hope you don’t mind if I crash your cottage one more time.”

“Of course I don’t.” Hajime rustled in his pocket, took out his key. “Come on, let’s go in.”

Komaeda followed him inside. He took off his shoes at the door, sat by the edge of Hajime’s bed like he belonged there. In Hajime’s opinion, he kind of did.

“Do you want to talk about it?” He asked, sitting next to him and allowing him to lay his head on his shoulder. “You nightmare, I mean?”

“Hm.” Komaeda shrugged. “There’s nothing to talk about, truly.”

“What was it about?”

“I don’t remember.”

He frowned. “You don’t remember?”

“Nope.” Komaeda gave him a look. He was really pretty when he looked up like that. “Is that an issue?”

“..No,” He wrapped an arm around him, “Still. It must have been pretty bad if you can’t sleep at your anymore.”

Komaeda’s gaze, once more, was hard to read. He merely snuggled closer.

“Can we lay down?”

Hajime could only nod. Komaeda didn’t even try to get away from him, straightforwardly laying right on top of his body without even stopping to stop his pillow from falling the ground. Hajime firstly wondered how he got in this situation twice in the same day, and then his trail of thoughts escalated in a chant of “dude, who fucking cares”, and he pulled him closer.

“Better?” He whispered, adjusting his position so they could both be comfortable. Komaeda nodded against his chest.

Thing was, Komaeda didn’t seem to be trying to sleep. His hands trailed up Hajime’s arms, fingers squeezing more often than not, letting out breaths and small noises of consideration every now and then. Hajime didn’t dare say anything.

“Hinata-kun?” Komaeda then said, trying and honestly failing to look at him while staying in the same spot.

He smiled, “Yeah?”

“Do you work out?”

He paused. Out of all questions, seriously. What else did he even expect from Komaeda.

“Uhm,” He frowned. “Not really?”

“Strange.” He hummed, “Hinata-kun has a nice build.”

“I-I mean—” He coughed twice. God that was embarrassing. “I run in the mornings when I’m at school. It helps take out some energy, t-that’s all…”

“Do you now?”

He shrugged merely. “I mean, I used to work out while in the summer, but uh — exams kinda kicked my ass. I have no time at all lately.”

“I see.” Komaeda nodded, “Perhaps you should contact Nidai-kun. He could make you a wonderfully flawless training plan.”

“Yeah, no thanks,” He chuckled, “He’d probably have me on the ground in three sessions.”

“True enough.” He shrugged. “Your own choice.”

“What’s with this anyway?” He poked his forehead. “Why do you care if I work out or not?”

“I do not.” Komaeda knitted his eyebrows together. “I just believe Hinata-kun’s body looks incredibly nice.”

Yeah. That was. Yeah. Yup.

He was pretty sure he was about to choke on the air he was breathing. Hajime had to clear his throat several times before he was able to say anything else, his closed fist covering his quivering lips.

“T-Thanks.” He mumbled. “I guess.”

Komaeda laughed. He nuzzled his face back in the crook of Hajime’s neck, tightened his arms around him.

Hajime felt his face soften. He placed a lingering kiss on his hair, so soft against the skin of his place, and there was so much of it that he wondered if Komaeda felt it. Given by the way he raised his head after, adjusted his position so they were face to face, he probably did.

"Hey, Komaeda..." He started, albeit admittedly having little no clue of where this conversation was going.

"Yes?"

"What are you doing this summer?”

Komaeda paused. He let out a hum, lifted his shoulders.

"Probably nothing." He said at last. "Unless Nanami-san organizes anything with our class, of course. Ah, and if Ibuki doesn't drag me out. Which I think she will."

"R-Right..." He cleared his throat. "So. Uhm. You'll be free?"

Komaeda studied him carefully.

"What are you trying to ask me?"

"I-I mean —" Why was he this observant? Hajime needed a break. "I just..."

It wasn't weird to tell the guy you're in love with you wanted to see him, right? Especially if said guy. was also in love with you. Hajime believed it would all work out. Surely. He wasn't freaking out about a possible negative statement. Imagine that. Why would he.

And if he was a little bit terrified out of his mind that Komaeda could politely shoot him down and tell him he didn't want to see him, that was his business. Thanks.

"Maybe... we could hang out too." He suggested, his voice a little uncertain. "I-I was just thinking... I mean, we never truly, uhm, went out that much back at Hope's Peak Academy, but uhm— I'd like to. See you again, I mean."

Komaeda didn't talk immediately. He focused on caressing his arms and neck and torso and shoulders and anything he could reach, on the next words he could be using, and all in the meantime, his cheek was pressed flush against Hajime's chest, and he was just so sure he could hear his heartbeat, he tried not to pass out at the thought of it.

"Are you really asking me this?" He sighed out, "As if it weren't obvious that I already want to see you all the time."

"It's... a little different over the summer, that's all."

"We could make it work." Komaeda shifted, "Could we not?"

"O-Of course —!" Hajime flushed, "We can do anything."

"Hm. I love the positive spirit, Hinata-kun."

"S-Shut up..."

Komaeda chuckled, Hajime felt him squeeze tighter. For a second, nobody spoke, until he heard another sigh, and if he were to be bolder, Hajime would say it sounded almost loving.

“You’re so very patient, are you aware?” Komaeda hummed, “Having me pressed this close to you this often…”

“I like having you close.” He admitted, albeit not easily, his face burning. Still, he managed a small shrug, brushing some hair out of Komaeda’s face. “And if it’s to help you sleep better…”

Komaeda pursed his lips. He leaned into the touch, let his eyes flutter close.

“Ah. Now I feel guilty.”

“Whyever would you?”

“I lied.” Komaeda smiled. “There was no nightmare.”

Hajime frowned.

“Huh?”

“I merely wanted to sleep with you.” He cupped his face. Stroked his cheekbones delicately, as if they could break. “I really am more comfortable when you hold me.”

Hajime thought that if a touch this gentle was about to kill him, he’d never stood a chance in the first place. He felt his face heat up worse, his hands twitching with the need of squeezing him tight. He thought that if someone glued them together for the rest of their lives, perhaps he wouldn’t complain at all.

“I—” He swallowed, “And I like holding you.”

“Then we’ve got ourselves a deal, Hinata-kun.”

He managed a trembling smile. “Y-Yeah. I guess we do.”

Komaeda leaned closer. Their foreheads pressed together, and Hajime’s eyelids fluttered close.

He heard Komaeda exhale against his mouth. Perhaps he was chuckling, with the way it sounded almost like a snort. He didn’t care all that much.

“You’re shaking, Hinata-kun,” Komaeda mused, “Is someone nervous?”

“M-Maybe?” It costed a lot to even mutter out something like that. Thinking clearly was already impossible, forming words and pronouncing them out loud was even worse. “I don’t know.”

“Don’t you?” Komaeda mused. He was getting closer, Hajime could feel it.

There were many times where he was unsure as of what the other was thinking. Komaeda managed to be cryptic and direct at the exact same time, and how he did it, that Hajime would never be able to tell. What he wanted, and how he planned to get it, was just as unknown as it was obvious if observed carefully. As of right now, however, Hajime felt conflicted.

All hints guided him to the idea that Komaeda was trying to kiss him. Or perhaps he just wanted to get close. Maybe he just wanted a hug. Maybe he was being a fucking idiot. Who knows.

He raised his hands just so he could rest them on his neck. He caressed his skin, raised his fingers to reach his hair. Komaeda lavished in the attention, leaning his head backwards.

“Hinata-kun…” Komaeda whispered, breathing tickling his face. “Do you have an idea of what I want? Can you tell?”

No. No he didn't. He didn't know what Komaeda wanted, not exactly. He wasn't sure of what he desired, what he felt as a primary need. Hajime wanted to say he knew him better than anyone else, but that would be a blatant lie. Komaeda was never straightforward. And Hajime was too used to reading within the lines to accept a firm answer.

He wasn't sure if he was doing the right thing. If he should allow himself to feel this eager when Komaeda came closer. When their lips brushed together just enough to feel the texture.

And then Komaeda yawned. He had to duck his head low to contain it, bringing one of his hands to cover his mouth.

Hajime sighed out. If in relief or frustration, he wasn't that certain anymore.

"Someone's tired," He managed to joke, caressing his face.

Komaeda let out a small whine. He ducked his head against Hajime's shoulder, let out a quivering breath.

"No I'm not."

"Hmhm..." He played with his hair, trying to relax him as much as he could. "Sleep, Komaeda."

Komaeda muttered something Hajime couldn't comprehend. He wasn't all that surprised when he took a very little amount of time to doze off.

Hajime closed his eyes too. He'd admire Komaeda's sleeping face one other time. Because there would be another time. He was going to make sure of it.

Hajime woke up without a real weight on top of him. He was on his side, actually, and for a second, he thought Komaeda had left again.

Instead, he then registered a presence against his face, and when he opened his eyes, all he could see was a mound of white hair. He felt a pressure against his chest, his arm onto something. That something being Komaeda’s body, which was pressed against him from behind.

How they ended up like that, he wasn’t sure, but he surely wasn’t one to complain.

He didn’t know if Komaeda was awake or not, but he still tried to be as careful and quiet as possible when he snuggled a little closer, wrapping both of his arms around him, placing his face against the nape of his neck and taking a small breath. It was way too early for him to feel this fuzzy. He didn’t care all that much.

Komaeda’s breathing hitched. Hajime smiled.

“Good morning.”

“Splendid morning, Hinata-kun.” Komaeda mumbled, his voice heavy with sleep. Cute.

“How long have you been awake for?”

“Not a long time.”

He turned so they could face each other. Again, too much closeness for such an early hour. Hajime felt like he was already going crazy, as it was harder to keep some self control when he was barely fully conscious.

“How did you sleep?” He settled for, hoping his voice didn’t sound too rough.

“Wonderfully.” Komaeda mused, leaning closer. “Hinata-kun is better than any sleeping pill I’ve taken in the past.”

“I’m going to ignore you said that.”

“Thank you.” He smiled. “And you?”

“I slept well too.” He brought his fingers up, mindlessly stroking his face with the back of his fingers.

He didn’t miss the way Komaeda’s eyes fluttered shut, leaning into the touch like he were a cat. Maybe more of a dog, he thought with a small smile. Komaeda was much more energetic. Sometimes. What stage of insanity must he have reached to have such thoughts, seriously.

He glanced out of the window, noticing it was still early hours. They had some time to have breakfast with their friends and spend some time around the island before they’d all have their scheduled meet up for that afternoon. He smiled, slowly sitting up with a lingering caress on his cheekbone.

Komaeda stumbled a bit. Had he been leaning closer? He couldn’t tell.

“We should head out,” He smiled, “We could spend some time on the beach today, what do you say?”

Komaeda frowned for a second. He sat up, too, running an hand through his hair.

“Ah, apologies.” He smiled, “But I must really join Ibuki for the morning. I promised her, you see.”

Hajime felt a pang in his chest. Which was stupid, really, because they basically spent the entirety of yesterday together, and they’d see each other again soon enough. Komaeda had all the right in the world to join a friend for his last day on a school trip. Hajime needed to get a grip.

“R-Right. Of course.” He waved his hand. “Don’t worry, we can see each other later.”

Komaeda hummed, scooting a little closer. He hugged him from his side, pressed a kiss on his temple like this was normalcy between them. Hajime felt his heart skip.

“I’ll see you, Hinata-kun.” He nodded, smiled at him while he put his shoes back on, raising his hand in a wave. “Goodbye.”

Hajime watched him get out and close the door behind him. He collapsed back in his bed, completely not relishing that he could still feel Komaeda on it. He wasn’t a creep, thank you.

The rest of his morning was spent a bit in a blur. He ate with his friends, hung out with them and went around the island for the last time.

He spent some time on the beach on his own, too. He had his shoes off, walking on the lowest levels, feeling the cold water wet his feet and ankles. He thought about the time he’d spent here, how much fun he’d had spending time with the others, how it felt to see the person he loved this often. He’d never thought a feeling could get at such a level of intensity, and yet it’d happened to him. He was strangely happy about it, like it was something he was waiting for.

He’d come to the conclusion that he loved Komaeda, more than he already thought he did. He thought he loved him when they were mindlessly chatting behind a screen, and yet it was nothing if confronted with the affection he felt for him when they started seeing each other in person. It was a mere drop, seriously, that had soon fallen into the ocean of overwhelming feeling that he was soon drowning in. It was the first time he felt like he didn’t want to come out of it.

Hajime was susceptible to embarrassment, and he wasn’t really one that loved feeling vulnerable all that much. Love, without a doubt, was the most embarrassing feeling of them all, and talking about it was getting easier, albeit it still made heat rush through him way too often, but time was making its course.

He glanced back at the scenery behind him. Yeah. He was probably going to miss this. Maybe he could come back one time, with his whole class, preferably. If they had a way, that was.

His class. Hm. He wondered when he started to think about them like that.

Nanami insisted he didn’t have to physically be there to be considered their classmate. Everyone loved him, she said, so what difference did that make? He could be an honorary member. He always smiled when she said that.

Hajime had once thought talent meant everything. He’d been admiring Hope’s Peak Academy since he was a kid, and he’d spent a lot of years waiting and searching for his Ultimate talent to arrive. He thought he might have some success in different camps, make them sport or academics — with no avail in either or those. Starting high school and never receiving an acceptance letter had felt like a hard pang in his chest.

He wondered what would have happened if he’d just given up. If he hadn’t heard of the Academy’s reserve course and never begged his parents for a chance. If they never had the funds necessary to let him in, if he kept living a normal, somewhat boring life in a regular school with other regular people. Getting to hear about the Ultimates from news online, never experiencing the burnout that came from following a course of studies capable of draining the life out of your body.

He would have never met Nanami, for starters. She would have never bumped onto him and he’d never recognized the game she was playing. She would have never introduced him to her class, he would have never met the best people he’d ever had the pleasure of getting to know. He would have never met Komaeda. He would have never fallen in love with Komaeda. The somewhat more calming life he might have been having would require him giving up the people he loved the most.

Perhaps that was it. He didn’t need a talent, maybe. He would always hope for it, but without all the envy and anger that had accompanied him up until a few mere months ago.

He smiled, looking up at the clouds above them. Yeah. This was much better. He really wouldn’t change a thing.

If he’d agreed to his headmaster’s proposal… He wasn’t really sure of what would have happened. They’d promised him talent, in exchange of full cooperation and full submission to tests and experiments that would probably never have an ending. He’d thought it would be his best chance, his only way to belong. His only way to deserve a spot on Nanami’s side. He was happy he’d been proven wrong. He hoped nobody else would get contacted, because of they had just one chance to experience what Hajime was living right now, he could only wish them the best.

Almost all of his friends had already retrieved in their cottages by the time Hajime came back to the restaurant. No doubt preparing themselves for that afternoon.

He was a little surprised to see Miss Yukizome by the window, talking with someone on her phone. The moment she saw him, she merely smiled and hung up, joining him where he’d sat.

“Good afternoon, Hinata.” She said with a wave, “Everyone else ate earlier I saw.”

“Uh, yeah,” He rubbed the back of his head. “I was walking around and lost track of time.”

“I see.” She nodded, “I hope everything is well.”

“O-Of course.” He shrugged, “It’s just a little melancholic. Leaving after two weeks here and all.”

She smiled understandingly, patting his back lightly. “I know what you mean. Perhaps there will be an occasion to have another school trip next year.”

She pulled one of the chairs near him, sitting down. “I hope you don’t mind if I keep you company for a while. It gets a little lonely after so much time giving you kids some space.”

“O-Of course not, ma’am.”

He took a bite of the food that was still on the table — a little cold, but it didn’t matter. He let a few seconds linger, hesitated because, well, miss Yukizome was wonderful, really, but she was still a teacher. And Hajime had never considered the mere idea of opening up to a teacher, not really.

But she was kind, and she knew her students better than everyone else. Hajime just needed advice from someone who could give him a whole opinion, objectively, without any sort of personal preference, nor without being on anyone’s side. She was gentle, yet direct. He felt like he needed that.

“Uhm,” He cleared his throat. “Hey, Miss…”

“Yes?”

“Well—” He felt his cheeks flush already. If only he had a thousand yen for every time he’d blushed through this whole trip, seriously. He could probably afford another. “Y-You see, uhm… Do you remember what I’ve told you at the start of this trip? T-That I had. Uhm. Feelings. For a boy?”

She blinked, perhaps a little surprised he’d ever have the courage to approach the matter directly. He was too, honestly.

“I do recall, yes?” She giggled a bit. “It was really cute.”

“P-Please don’t…” He covered his face. “Well, uhm — It’s just…”

“I’m flattered that you’re asking me for advice,” She assured. She was clearly holding herself back for his sake, her hand resting on his wrist. “Do you need any help?”

“Uhm,” He gulped, kept his own hand on his neck. His gaze was firm on the table, not daring to look up, or he was sure he would have just ran away.

“You could say it’s kinda… complicated,” He sighed out, “I told him I like him, and he likes me too. Kinda. B-But uh… he kind of… needed time?”

Miss Yukizome tilted her head. “Did you have a fight?”

“N-No— Yes? It’s complicated.” He repeated, passing his hands through his hair, taking a breath. “It’s just… the trip is almost over, and I… I just need him to know I care, you know? A-And— he does know, but I also…”

“You want him.” She concluded, her smile kind. “And you feel guilty?”

He dared to look at her. Gave her a small nod.

“I’m guessing he’s in this class, from what you’ve told me.” She rubbed his shoulder. “Hinata, they all adore you, and for a good reason. You’re a lovely kid.”

“But he…” He grimaced, “I did a lot of stupid things.”

“Like any boy your age.” She pressed, “Perhaps you could have a talk.”

“We already have.”

“A definitive one.” She hummed, “Has he given you any sign he feels a little more ready?”

Hajime frowned. He thought about it. Had he, now? There were a few instances where Komaeda was a little closer than comfort, but he was already like that when they were just friends. It probably meant nothing.

“I don’t know.” He concluded, letting out a sigh. “I don’t want to misread it.”

“That’s why you should talk to him,” She held up a finger, “Grab him aside today. Ask him what he thinks. If he’s still not ready, then you can use the incoming summer break to think about it.”

He grimaced. His fists clenched on his knees.

“I’m not sure,” He mumbled. “I… I don’t want to lose him.”

“Aw, Hinata…” She stroked his shoulder with her thumb. “I’m sure you won’t. Komaeda is complex, but he absolutely adores you, does he not? He would never do something like that.”

“He does… I guess.” He smiled a bit. “It’s not like I doubt him, but I—”

He paused. He snapped his head back in her direction.

“W-Wait — Who said I’m talking about Komaeda?!”

“…Oops.” Yukizome covered her mouth, letting out a muffled giggle, “That slipped out.”

“T-That’s— How did you —”

“I’m a teacher, Hinata.” She lowered her hand, her lips curled up knowingly. “I happen to know my students.”

“G-God…” He turned his face away. “Great. Wonderful. So a teacher understood, too.”

“Well,” She tempered, “It was a little obvious...”

“Miss, please.”

“But that’s okay!” She gave him a thumbs up. Not the oddest thing he’d received while being comforted. “Exactly because I’m a teacher, Hinata, I know he cares about you a lot, too.”

Hajime hesitated. “Has he… uhm, said anything?”

She shook her head. “Komaeda is a lovely kid, but he’s extremely reserved. I think you know that.”

“I do.” He sighed out. “I just want to make him happy.”

“I’m sure you will.” She stood up. “Finish eating, Hinata. You have a trip waiting for you in an hour, after all.”

Hajime smiled. “Thank you, Miss.”

She returned it, completely sincere. “It is what I’m for. You’re welcome.”

He watched her go. Hajime looked down at his food, still smiling between himself.

Maybe it really would be okay.

“Nanami. I beg you. Put the console down.”

“I’m almost done.”

“You’re gonna trip on one of these roots if you don’t put it down.”

“I’m. Almost. Done.”

“Nanami, seriously!”

“Leave her, I command! She’s more than capable to do what she craves!”

“Sonia, really, take off your rose tinted glasses.”

“I’m not wearing glasses, though?”

“Not like that—”

Surprisingly, hiking wasn’t all that bad. Mostly because it wasn’t much of a hike, and much more like following a path that happened to go upwards. As for now, Hajime stood right next to Nanami, while the rest of their classmates either followed behind or guided in front or — in the case of Koizumi, Sonia, and Pekoyama — hovered around Nanami, who had made the mistake of taking out her console in a moment of boredom, and tried to not let her get injured.

They’d been walking for a while now. Behind them, Hajime could hear Soda hyping up what he’d worked on, carrying everything in a backpack he was holding in one hand, Kuzuryu only half pretending he was listening. He smiled a bit.

He placed his hand on Nanami’s shoulder. “Tree alert.”

“I saw it.” She lied. She did not see it. She tripped, and Sonia caught her with little no issue, giggling to herself.

“I have an idea!” She tittered. And lifted her up.

Koizumi blinked, “Can you, uh, even walk like that?”

“Obviously!” She asserted. Nanami blinked, taking her eyes off the console to register the situation. Her face went red, and she hid it behind the object.

“I could switch if your arms get tired,” Pekoyama offered, “Don’t stress yourself.”

“Thank you for the offer, Pekoyama-san!” Sonia smiled. “But I’ve got her.”

Hajime rolled his eyes lovingly. “Next time we’re leaving your games in your cottage.”

“Try me.”

“How long yet?!” Came Saiyonji’s complain, who wasn’t even having troubles walking. He suspected she was complaining for the sake of it. “I’m starting to become bored as hell.”

“It shouldn’t be too long…” She cupped her hands in front of her mouth. “Owari, Nidai! How far along still?!”

The two to them were running — yes, running, the two show offs — their way up the hill, and stopped when they (barely) heard her. Owari yelled back “Not much!”

“Alright, thanks!” She turned back, “See? Not a lot.”

“Ugh,” Saiyonji pointed at Soda with her fan, “It’s all his fault. I’m never listening to lame people again!”

Soda jumped, “H-Hey—! I’m not lame—!”

 “You so are! Whoever chooses that hair colour is lame as hell!”

“W-What does that have to do with my hair–!”

“It’s ugly, that’s what!”

“W-Whatever!” Soda put his hands on his hips. “You’ll change your mind when you’ll see my super awesome fireworks — speaking of —”

He turned around, “Komaeda, you have the matches, right?!”

Komaeda looked up from where he was talking to Mioda, blinking at the sudden request. He smiled, waved his hand.

“Of course, Soda-kun.” He reached over the bag he was carrying. “It wasn’t difficult to find them at all! I was so lucky to see them fall right as I passed by the shelf…”

He looked into the bag. Stopped walking. Let out a small “Oh”.

Soda frowned. “What?”

“Ah.” He smiled. “I seem to have proved myself to be useless once more.”

“W-What does that even mean?!”

“I have forgotten the matches at my cottage.” He said, like he was just now realizing he’d forgotten to water a plant, and not like he’d just unintentionally sabotaged a whole evening together.

“What?!”

“Whaaaat?!” Mioda grabbed her face. “Nagito-chan, are you serious?!”

“I know, it’s just like a scum such as myself to forget something so important…” Komaeda placed his hands on his hips. “It’s alright! You can push me off this hill as punishment, I will gladly accept it!”

“Why the fuck would you even give that job to him of all people…” Kuzuryu grumbled, arms crossed. “Anyone would have been more reliable.”

“H-He’s the one that insisted!” Soda protested. “Aren’t you?!”

“I am.” He sighed out. “And obviously I prove myself to be useless…”

“Oh, cut it.” Koizumi groaned, “You’ll go and get them now!”

“Yes ma’am!”

“It’s getting dark.” Nanami noted. “He might get lost in the woods on his own. I think.”

“Whatever, that’s what he deserves!” Soda pointed, “It’s all his fault anyway!”

“I agree.” Komaeda supplied, unhelpfully.

Hajime frowned, his lips pursed together really tightly. Komaeda could easily get lost, with his luck. He could trip and get hurt. And he wouldn’t even call for help, because that was just who he was. He could hit his head. He could twist an ankle. He could start bleeding. He could ditch and run away. Jump off the hill, with how fucked up in the head episodes like this made him.

He gulped.

“H-Hey now,” He tried, “Soda, you said you were making some sort of automatic launcher—?”

“Well, yeah,” He scratched his cheek, “But my materials were good enough for the first one that I’m gonna throw. I need the matches if we want more than, like, ten fireworks.”

He grimaced, “Then someone should go with him.”

“The road is like, super long!” Saiyonji rolled her eyes. “I dare you to try and find some loser that wants to do it all over again.”

“I agree with Hinata, though.” Nanami shrugged. “That would be preferable in case anything happens. It’s what miss Yukizome would want, probably.”

There was a collective silence and distortion of gazes.

Hajime groaned, “Seriously—”

“Hajime-chan,” Mioda placed her hands behind her back, “Perhaps you should go, then!”

“M-Me—?”

“I mean, you’re the one insisting,” Koizumi said with a shrug. “And you’re the only one who can keep Komaeda grounded.”

“That’s not — what does that even mean?!”

“She’s kind of correct…”

“Komaeda!”

“Regardless, it would be preferable if Hinata-kun came with me,” Komaeda clasped his hands together. He was still in pretty high spirits, despite it all. He didn’t know if that was a good thing. “If that is not a bother, obviously.”

Believe him when Hajime said he was hesitating out of actual will. He wanted to accompany Komaeda, of course he did. He wanted to make sure he was safe, carry him like Sonia was doing if his legs got weak. Give him his heart on a silver platter.

He was just afraid of what his self control would decide to do alone with Komaeda in the woods.

He shook his head. He had to throw that away, or he was never going to get out of here sane enough. He took a deep breath.

“A-Alright, fine. You guys go, we’ll see you on top.”

“Be careful, Hinata.”

“Goodbye, Hinata-san, Komaeda-san!”

“Don’t die, bastard.”

Slowly, all of them had moved on. Mioda gave Komaeda a wink and a hit with her elbow on Komaeda’s arm, running to catch up with the others. Hajime frowned.

“Are you okay?”

“Why would I not be?” Komaeda turned around, starting to walk downhill. “It was merely my mistake. I’ll fix it up, no problem.”

He then tripped on a rock. Hajime rushed to grab his arm.

“J-Jeez…” He sighed. “It’s best if you hold on, okay?”

Komaeda hummed, leaning towards him. He was weirdly obedient.

The two of them made their way downhill. Hajime wouldn’t lie and say he wasn’t annoyed out of his mind at the thought of having to do this whole road once again, but if it was to help Komaeda out, he thought there was no issue. He’d try to find a way if Komaeda asked him to move it, anyway. If he asked for the moon. Hajime would go insane at the cost of finding a way to get it. That’s how ruined for this boy he’d become. It was too embarrassing to dwell on about.

It took some time to get at the bottom of the hill. Just as Nanami had predicted, it got dark fast, and Hajime had to use the flashlight of his phone to not get lost.

“Where’s yours anyway?” He’d asked.

Komaeda had smiled. “Completely out of battery.”

“Wonderful.”

Safe to say coming with him had been the right decision.

When they finally reached the bottom of the hill, Hajime glanced at the clock. They approximately two hours and something to go get the matches and come back.

“We should make it if we hurry.” He decided, looking back up. Or, well, down, because Komaeda was insistingly keeping his face nuzzled against his shoulder, bent down all weird. He snorted.

“Komaeda.”

“Hm? Ah, yes.” He walked forward. “Come, Hinata-kun!”

“H-Hey, don’t pull like that—!”

Komaeda did, in fact, pull him towards his cottage. They took some time to get through the whole path, and Hajime watched as then Komaeda took all the calm in this world to search for his cabin key, opened the door, and stretched.

“Very well, hm…” He mumbled, “Where could I ever have put those matches now..?”

Hajime leaned against the door, completely ignoring (that was a lie) the way Komaeda bent down, wrapped his jacket tighter around himself. He looked unbearably huggable. Hajime felt heat rush over.

He shook his head. This was not the time.

“Do you want some help?”

“Ah, not necessary,” Komaeda dismissed, “They must be… hm, strange…”

He watched him skin through boxes and drawers. He searched up his whole room, actually, all the while always keeping himself so Hajime would be facing his back.

He pursed his lips. “Komaeda…”

“It’s alright. I’m sure they’ll come out. Sooner or later.”

“That’s not comforting.”

“You sound dreadfully in a hurry…” Komaeda sighed out, “Being alone with me must be so terrible…”

“W-We’re late,” He protested, “And the others are gonna be pissed if we don’t show up soon.”

Komaeda let out another sigh. He hummed, bent down, stood back up. No matches in sight.

Hajime was starting to wonder where he’d left them, at this point. Maybe he never really got them. Maybe they were thrown somewhere around the island. Maybe they’d have to come back and give bad news.

“Say, Hinata-kun…” Komaeda spoke up, his voice a little quieter. “I’ve been… wondering something.”

Hajime paused. Blinked at him, tilted his head.

“What is it?”

“Hmm…”

Komaeda turned just enough just so his eyes were visible.

“You said you love me.” He whispered, “Correct?”

Hajime just. Stared.

His heart started beating like crazy, so much so he had to clutch his chest in pain. Heat rushed all over his body. Because, seriously, where the fuck did that come from?

“I-I—” He gulped. Calm down. You’ve had this conversation before. Nothing too scandalous. This is probably just him having doubts again. Not like this is really the time, though…

“I do.” He hated how small his voice felt, but he kept going. “You know I do.”

“Hm.”

“W-Where is that coming from—?” He stuttered, averting his gaze. “I doubt we have the time to—”

“Hinata-kun is such a big liar.”

He stopped rambling immediately. His frown accentuated.

Komaeda couldn’t be doubting him again. How many times must they have this conversation?

“What do you mean—?” He almost felt offended. Almost. “What’s that supposed to mean—?!”

“I mean,” Komaeda shrugged. “You’re such a liar.”

“W-Why would I be—”

“I mean,” He stood back up straight, “A person that’s in love with another wouldn’t reject them over and over, correct?”

Hajime opened his mouth. Closed it again. Searched for any sign — any, seriously, any would be good — that this was some sort of ironic try for mockery, or a half assed prank, or a stupid joke that was really out of place. It was not. Komaeda looked almost upset.

Hajime was still facing his back, but he could see the way he was hugging himself. His head was low.

“What…” He took a step forward. “What are you talking about—?”

Because, really, if Komaeda had made any advances, Hajime was pretty sure he would have jumped on him immediately. No hesitation nor questions would have been needed, Hajime would have accepted them and drowned in affection in zero amounts of time. It would have been easy, too easy, for Komaeda to hit on him, if he had wanted to. But he did not, Hajime was almost completely sure of it. Almost. Because he felt a little crazy right now.

“Or perhaps it wasn’t rejection,” Komaeda mumbled, sounding like he was smiling. One of those smiles, for sure. “Maybe I was just pressuring you. Ah. What a fool I am.”

“Komaeda.” Another step. “What. Are you talking. About.”

Komaeda paused. Turned around, his face twisted in a frown.

“Hinata-kun,” He said, voice careful. “I’ve been trying to get a reaction out of you for two days now.”

Hajime stared. Komaeda turned properly. They faced each other, air so tense you could cut it with a knife.

Hajime blinked. “You... Excuse me?”

“Hinata-kun,” Komaeda said again. He looked almost as confused as Hajime felt. “I tried everything. I offered you my hand.” No he didn’t. “I leaned close to you more than once.” As a friend. “I fell asleep on you twice.” Pure coincidence. “I tried to kiss you.” No he didn’t— “I think I’ve been pretty clear.” No he had not.

Hajime kept staring. His fingers twitched rather violently, and he had to clench his fists to keep them still. He was trying to make a sense of what he was hearing, which was. Well. Difficult was an understatement.

“W-What—” He stuttered out, once more, feeling completely stupid. “When have you tried to—”

He tried to run through everything that had happened. Sure, Komaeda often came too close for comfort, but hadn’t he always done that? Back when their feelings for each other weren’t established, he’d still… well, okay, he might have confessed he was in love with him at that time, too, but — this wasn’t what it was. He wanted space. Hajime had tried to give him space.

And leaning close surely didn’t mean he was trying to kiss him. Nor was closing his eyes. Nor breathing on his mouth. Nor…

Wait.

Hajime felt like the floor had been taken off his feet. Like the air had been sucked out of his lungs completely.

What the fuck. What the fuck was wrong with him.

“You…” He barely managed, “You were hitting on me—?!”

Komaeda stared at him too. He looked like he was only now realizing who the idiot he’d fallen for was. Hajime couldn’t blame him.

“You… didn’t realize—?” He mumbled, “Are you serious.”

“I,” Hajime sucked in a breath. “I don’t know.”

“Wonderful. That’s great.”

“S-So, you —” Hajime ran his hands through his hair. “I thought you needed space!”

“I told you I needed time to think,” Komaeda stressed, waving his hands, “I thought I had implied I would be the one telling you when I felt ready!”

“After a day of talking?!” Hajime let out a heavy breath. He felt like he was about to go fucking insane. “How was I supposed to know it was the right moment?”

“I-I did a lot of thinking that night.” Komaeda mumbled, gripping his jacket. “You look rather charming when you’re asleep. By the way.”

“Is that — should I be creeped out?”

“Please do not.”

“I’ll try.”

“I just—” He grimaced, “I thought how wonderful it was to be in your arms again. And the day after, we spent almost all of it together, and when I retrieved, I thought—” Komaeda took a breath, too. His eyes were strangely swirly. “I thought I had it figured out. i thought that was it. Ah. Haha. Of course I was only thinking about myself…”

“You weren’t—” Hajime raised his hand. To do what, he wasn’t sure. “I wasn’t…” He groaned, “Fuck, Komaeda, why is this so fucking complicated?!”

“I don’t know.”

“Why can’t we talk like normal people?”

“I don’t know, Hinata-kun, I really do not.”

Hajime pursed his lips tight.

“You thought I was rejecting you…” He processed, looking at the ground. “And I had no idea you actually… Fuck.”

“Hm.”

Hajime’s thoughts were funny, right now, because they were both running a mile per hour, and also not working at all. He was thinking about all and nothing. Too much and not enough. This was… they were a mess.

“Then — I want to ask you again,” Komaeda mumbled, meeting his eyes. He was still frowning. What emotion was that even supposed to convey? “Hinata Hajime, do you love me?”

Hajime didn’t hesitate a second.

“I do.” He nodded. “I love you.”

Komaeda sucked in another breath. It was sharp, quick.

Then he crossed the room and wrapped his arms around him, so tightly and sudden it knocked the wind out of him.

Hajime felt his arms tremble before he wrapped them back around Komaeda’s middle, pushing him close, burying his face in his shoulder.

For the first time in a very, very long period, Hajime felt at peace.

It lasted. They spent what felt like it were minutes holding each other. Komaeda’s shoulders were shaking a bit, but Hajime said nothing about it. Strangely, he just felt like it wouldn’t be the right thing to act on. Instead he stroked his back, turned his face so he could press a thousand kisses on his cheek, jaw and neck, wherever he was able to reach.

“I love you,” Komaeda choked out, “Hinata-kun, I love you.”

“Love you.” Hajime felt like he couldn’t breathe. He felt like he was exactly where he was supposed to be. “I love you, Komaeda, I love you.”

“I’m sorry,” He mumbled, uselessly, because there was nothing to apologize for. “I’m sorry I was this confusing all the time.”

“I’m sorry too.” Hajime’s voice quivered. “I’m sorry for everything. I was an idiot. I wasn’t—”

“It’s okay.” He was squeezed tight. “It’s alright. I’ve forgiven you a long time ago.”

“You shouldn’t have.”

“And you shouldn’t love me, but here we are.”

“You believe me?” Hajime pulled away, just enough so they could look at each other. Not easy, really, because Komaeda didn’t seem to have any intention in letting him go. “You — you finally—?”

“It’s taking so long, I know.” Komaeda caressed his face. Hajime melted into it easily. “I’m sorry. I’m doing my best.”

“Don’t apologize.” His eyes were starting to sting. “I’ll say it over and over. I’ll work hard to make you believe me.”

Komaeda’s breathing hitched. He dropped his head so it could lay its forehead on Hajime’s shoulder.

“This is exactly why I’m so lost for Hinata-kun.” He mumbled, “Why do you have this overwhelming power over me?”

“What do I know…” He chuckled, “Why do you?”

“I feel highly ignorant on this kind of matter.”

“Good. We can match.”

Komaeda snorted out a laugh. He pressed closer.

Hajime gulped.

“Komaeda,” He tried to make him raise his head. “Komaeda, so… Does this mean, uhm, are we—”

Komaeda looked up. He looked expectant.

Hajime tried to be bold. He had no reason to feel this terrified. None at all.

He grabbed his face, tilted it towards himself.

“Komaeda,” He muttered, “Do you want to go out with me?”

Komaeda slowly opened in a smile. It lit up the whole room.

“As in,” He mumbled, straightening up, “Officially?”

“Please.”

“Hinata-kun wants to be my boyfriend?”

“I loved being your boyfriend,” He blurted out, “I never want to stop.”

Komaeda faltered. Poor him, trying and failing to act like he was so above this. Hajime smiled a bit.

“I want to be your boyfriend,” He said once more, kissing his cheek. “I want to spend all of my time with you.”

Komaeda blushed. It didn’t happen often, Hajime noted, but when it did, he was extremely vulnerable about it. All soft whines and closed looks, closer snuggles, sensitive to the sensation just like him.

There was a lot they had in common. They’d shared the same mindset for such a long while. They had the same opinions, some viewed differently than others, and despite their disagreements, Hajime could affirm they were merely two sides of the same coin. And Hajime loved him, he loved him so deeply, he was sure they could overcome every last difference that would come between them.

If Komaeda had doubts, Hajime would calm them down, hush them out of the way. If Hajime got too angry, Komaeda would find away to bring him back with his feet on the ground. And they could do it. Together. He’d never thought he’d believe in this sort of mindset, but here he was. Love really did change you.

"I want to be with you, too." Komaeda muttered, voice on the verge of desperation, "I want to be with Hinata-kun for the rest of my life."

Hajime flushed. He had a love-hate relationship with Komaeda's bluntness.

"D-Don't word it like that..." He stuttered, "Not yet, at least..."

"Hmhm."

Komaeda leaned their foreheads together. Hajime took a small breath.

There was a kiss planted between his eyes. The words I love you muttered against his skin. And Hajime did the same — kissing his cheek, alternating between giving and receiving, moving targets, the both of them tasting all over the other's face until there was only one spot left.

He thought it was a sigh of relief, the one that came out of him when Komaeda finally kissed his lips. It felt like a piece of his soul had finally been put back in place. It felt like he was finally complete. And it all felt so new and yet so familiar, like they’d never stopped.

Komaeda's arms were firm on his hips, Hajime's own around his taller neck. He brought him down so they could be at the same level, and Komaeda let out a soft sound, leaning in without resistance. Obedient, dare he say submissive. He could work with that.

Hajime forgot where he was. He didn't remember nor care about where they were at the moment, what time it was, nor who he was for that matter, truly, he could not care less. What was his name, what he looked like. His senses were merely filled with Komaeda, and Hajime could only see him. He pulled him closer, their bodies flush against each other, lips moving clumsily and slowly, parting, letting their breaths fuse together, their teeth clanking together from time to time. Komaeda's tongue brushed him, and Hajime felt a spark spread all the way across his back.

It grew. Hajime never truly did this if not once, and it had lasted a mere five minutes before he'd awkwardly pulled away. That was what happens when you try to make out with someone you barely know, he guessed.

But he knew Komaeda like the back of his palm, and despite there was still so much about him he still had to discover, he felt strangely confident about it.

And so he let his instincts guide him as he used his hands to not allow him to escape — not that he was trying to, Komaeda's arms were firm and shaking with the effort of squeezing him enough for Hajime to be trapped, too — his grip, not able to even simply imagine pulling away from this kiss.

He felt a lick on his bottom lip. He parted his lips immediately, and Komaeda's tongue entered his mouth completely. Hajime tried doing the same, drool dripping down both of their chins, having him scrunch up in slight disgust. He tried to bring a hand to wipe it, but Komaeda whined immediately at the loss of his grip, and he melted, bringing it on the back of his head, instead.

The only reason why they separated was a mutual lack of air. Even then, their lips still touched, tingling due all that kissing, pulsing with the need to close the distance again.

"I love you," He said, giving him one more kiss. "I love you, Komaeda, I love you so much." Another. Another more.

Komaeda shivered, allowed each kiss to be pressed.

"Hinata-kun —" One more. "I—" Kiss. Kiss. Kiss. "I lo — Hinata-kun—"

“Hajime.”

Komaeda paused. Opened his eyes just enough to look. Hajime shut his own close.

"Y-You—" He cleared his throat. "You can call me Hajime. If you want."

Komaeda pulled away. Stared at him. His cheeks were flushed, even warmer under his touch, his hair messy, his pupils dilated and unfocused. Hajime subconsciously licked his lips.

"... Really?" He muttered, "I— I wouldn’t want — I would never—"

"Please." Hajime insisted, caressing his face wherever he could reach. "Please, Nagito—"

His lips were busy before he could finish that sentence.

The kiss danced dangerously along the edge of being too much and not enough all at the same time. Hajime matched the enthusiasm Komaeda was throwing in it, his arms tight around him, their bodies swinging from the force of their kiss. And Komaeda kept whispering his name over and over between each smack, like it was all he could think of, all he could manage to get out of his mouth. A small, quiet yet consistent chant of "Hajime, Hajime, Hajime" that drove him completely mad.

Hajime took a step forward. Komaeda took a step back.

They were forced to separate when going backwards had Komaeda's knees hit the bed, letting themselves fall onto the mattress. Hajime pressed kisses all over his face and neck, listening to the sounds Komaeda kept letting out. He could get drunk off of it.

"Hajime—" He panted, truly out of breath. "I—"

"I know." He mumbled, "I love you, Nagito."

Komaeda's face immediately shifted, like his brain had stopped working completely. Their lips met again.

"We're going to go on a date," Hajime promised him, trying to speak through the continuous kisses placed against his lips. "And it's —" Kiss. "Going to—" Kiss. "Be awesome and —" Kiss. "And—" Kiss, kiss, kiss. "Nagito—"

"We are." Komaeda agreed, brought him closer if possible. "I want to spend my summer with you."

"I want to spend all of my time with you." Hajime chuckled breathlessly. "No more secrets, okay? No more hiding stuff from each other."

"Promise?"

"Swear."

Komaeda kissed him again. Hajime wasted no time reciprocating.

“And we’re—” He was struggling to get coherent words out. Komaeda made it so difficult to think. And speaking with your lips being kissed every two seconds was certainly a task. “We’re going to — be happy, okay? We—”

“Shut up.”

“—I mean it, I—” He gasped, “I’m sorry, f-for everything, I—”

“Hajime.” Another kiss. “Shut up.”

The room fell quiet if not for continuous smacks of lips, quiet gasps and heated breaths. There was a rustling that came from a frantic grip on each other’s clothes, on the sheets below them, on the skin they managed to feel under their fingertips.

Hajime had felt a lot through this whole trip. He’d been feeling a lot for months now, from the high of a new crush to the crushing that came with insecurities and uncertainty. He had been so sure he’d had enough, that he didn’t want to feel anything else for the rest of his life. Upon coming here, Hajime had experienced much more, and he’d once more thought that would be his limit.

He was now convinced that out of all, he liked this feeling best. He liked being enveloped in Komaeda’s arms, he liked being kissed by him, he liked getting him to let out the most beautiful noises. They were muffled, held back, but perhaps if he pushed a little more, they’d amplify. Maybe. Most likely.

He threaded his fingers through his hair, not really sure of what he was doing, but used the grip to tilt his head upwards and deepen their kiss further. He shivered when Komaeda let out a full blown mewl, leaning more into the touch.

His free hand trailed down. He’d wanted to touch him like this for the longest time. He’d wished to hold him close to himself this exact way for so, so long. Getting to finally have an occasion to do it made him feel more euphoric than he was willing to let out.

He touched Komaeda’s torso, pulled away to ask if it was okay to only receive a harder kiss. Komaeda was inexperienced and Hajime could perfectly see it by the way he didn’t really know what to do with his hands and tongue, but with some guidance, he thought he was acting perfectly.

He could stay like this forever, he decided. Fuck going back home, he was going to seal himself in this cottage and kiss Komaeda until someone had to physically move him away. Which would not be entirely easy, not really, not with the way he gripped his hips so hard he was sure the delicate skin would bruise, shivering immediately at the thought because thinking about Komaeda getting marks from him was not entirely good for his sanity, and a little too appealing for someone like him of all people, who used to get embarrassed at the simple action that came with hand holding.

“Hajime…” Komaeda mumbled, gasping when Hajime’s knee shifted, moved against him. “Ah— Wait—”

He snapped out of it immediately. When he pulled away, there was an audible smack coming from their lips, a trial of saliva connecting them. He wiped it off with the back of his hand, his face burning a violent red.

“Fuck—” He stuttered, “I-I’m so sorry, I wasn’t thinking—”

“It’s okay,” Komaeda smiled. His face was just as flushed, his hair messy, his lips red and still wet from their actions. His chest was heaving with some difficulty, and he looked so blissed out, Hajime wanted to kiss him again.

Get over yourself, you hormonal idiot.

“I-It’s just—” Komaeda chuckled to himself, his hands still on Hajime’s shoulder. “If we kept going — I don’t think I’d be able to stop.”

His heart sped up, if it weren’t already beating a mile per hour. Fuck.

“I—” He gulped, “Wouldn’t mind—?”

“I’m sure,” Komaeda touched his own lips with his fingers, tittering. “But the others are waiting, and I can’t disappoint them once more.”

“The others…” Hajime frowned. Why would the others —

Ah. Right. That stupid light show. The matches. The whole entire reason why they came here. Hajime felt as if he’d caught on fire.

“A-Ah—!” He immediately sat up. “Right. Shit. Sorry.”

Komaeda laughed. He sat up, too, and their hands lingered on each other. It was a little obvious that none of them truly wanted to leave.

“You could come back later..?” Komaeda suggested, voice hopeful. Hajime smiled, gave him another kiss — chaste, this time. Otherwise they’d be back on stage one.

“With pleasure.”

He helped him stand up. Komaeda wobbled a bit, but managed to walk towards the bag he’d left on the ground.

Hajime stared at him like he were the solution to all his problems. He didn’t think it was possible to get so worked up form a kiss, but here he was.

“Let’s go, Hinata-kun.”

Hajime cleared his throat. Kept his gaze on the ceiling.

Komaeda blinked.

“Oh.” He paused, “You want me to keep calling you—”

“I-If you want—!” He crossed his arms. “I, uhm, I don’t care that much. Or something.”

Kill him now, seriously. That would be so much less painful.

Komaeda chuckled. He came in front of him, offered him a hand.

“Let’s go, Hajime.”

Hm. Yeah. That was. Yup.

Hajime’s smile was shaky when he grabbed it back. They took a few steps towards the door before he paused, “Wait, what about the matches?”

“Hm?”

“The matches. We still haven’t found them.”

“Oh.” Komaeda blinked. “They’re in my bag.”

Hajime frowned.

“Huh?”

“They were in my bag the whole time.” He shrugged. “Obviously.”

“What.” Hajime deadpanned. “Then this whole thing—”

Komaeda smiled.

“I wanted to talk to you, of course.”

Hajime said nothing.

He slammed Komaeda against the door and kissed the air out of his lungs.

They arrived at the peak of the hill at about ten minutes before midnight. A stroke of luck, Komaeda had called it, finding a faster path completely out of nowhere.

They gave Soda the matches — he insisted he wasn’t freaking out, but Hajime could see the relief in his eyes right after he snatched them from Komaeda’s grip — and joined the rest of their friends where they’d gathered around the edges.

Hajime then found out Mioda had been in this too the moment he caught her giving Komaeda a big grin. He’d beamed at her back, and they gave each other a nod. Hajime shook his head fondly.

Nanami eyed the way they kept their hands together immediately. She was on the ground, leaned in Sonia’s arms while her girlfriend fussed over Tanaka’s hamsters. She smiled, didn’t tease — for now, Hajime was painfully aware — them all that much, but Hajime’s chest felt warm anyway.

“Hajime,” Komaeda mused, pulling him a little closer. “I’ve been thinking.”

“Hm?” He smiled. They found a spot on the grass, still surrounded by others, so it was still a little difficult to give in to the affection fully. He was working on it.

“Have I ever told you I own a beach house?”

“You—” He frowned. “Somehow I’m not all that surprised.”

Komaeda chuckled. He pressed a kiss on Hajime’s forehead.

“If you have no plans this summer,” He said, “We could stay some time there.”

Hajime looked up at him. His cheeks heated up.

“Like —” He swallowed, “The two of us?”

Komaeda’s eyes lidded. He merely smiled, closed his eyes while he leaned his head on top of Hajime’s.

“Think about it.” He just said. “I’m used to waiting, anyway.”

“…Is that a jab—?”

“Yup!”

Hajime rolled his eyes.

Soda’s machine seemed to work, because at exactly midnight, the first firework was shot in the air. Their classmates cheered, watched them in awe. Some of them did indeed kiss. Hajime felt his face heat up when he planted one on Komaeda’s cheek, having to cover it immediately afterwards. He felt Komaeda melt next to him.

Despite the burning embarrassment, Hajime smiled.

He really could get used to this.

“Hajime is so bitter.”

“I’m not bitter, you’re just not listening.”

“But I am! Your reasoning just makes no sense!”

“Yes it does — shut up, just put the answer in—”

He did. Turns out Komaeda was right.

Hajime let out a groan. He closed the game, threw his phone on the other side of the bed.

“Whatever.” He crossed his arms. “That means nothing.”

“Aw,” Komaeda smiled, sitting up from where he was laying on Hajime’s legs. “Hajime always wants to be right at all costs…”

“Could you shut up?”

Komaeda let out a laugh. He leaned closer till his head hit his chest, and albeit Hajime didn’t push him away, he did shift so he could lay more comfortable on his dorm’s pillows.

Their trip home had been smooth and felt slightly faster than when they’d come the first time. Maybe because Hajime spent all of his time with Komaeda. Time seemed to fly when he was with him.

When they’d come back to the Academy, Komaeda had joked this was the first trip he’d gone to where he’d come back intact from. Hajime had shut him up with a hand on his mouth. Which Komaeda had then bit. Like he was a child.

Their relationship was filled with that kind of interactions since the start. Komaeda would piss him off on purpose, Hajime would fall right into the bait. They wouldn’t speak to each other for about ten minutes, and then make up. Because Hajime was kinda weak to cooing and sweet words. Not that he’d ever say that out loud. That’d be embarrassing.

To greet his return, Hajime had found his exam results already delivered. He’d opened them with Komaeda squeezing his hand tightly, claiming it would bring good luck. Hajime pointed out it would be useless, because they were already written down. Komaeda had shrugged.

And yet when he’d opened th envelope, he found out all results were positive. Some greater than others, surely, but that meant he could stay in the course. He’d smiled wide, and gladly accepted the enthusiastic hug and kiss Komaeda gave him.

“I’m so proud of you,” He’d said, and later Hajime would have sworn he wasn’t crying.

Now summer break was near, and Komaeda was technically over to help him pack his suitcase, but they got distracted in the middle of it. Playing the game that caused their first meeting once again caused some nostalgia, the good kind, but as per usual, they’d turned it into a petty argument, and now there were they, with Komaeda poking at his arm and trying to make his pout subside. He was unsuccessful so far.

“Hajimeeee,” He dragged out, landing a kiss on his jaw, “Come on. Smile at me.”

“Get out of my dorm.”

“But it’s so comfortable in here!” He wrapped his arms around him — a little difficult when Hajime’s arms were still tightly crossed, but he ignored it. He then winced, “Well. Kind of. Reserve course dorms surely are small..”

“Nagito.”

“Well, it makes sense!” He cheered, “A small room for a small, insignificant—”

“Nagito.”

“I’m not shutting up until you stop being mad at me.” He declared, continuing with his incessant poking. “Hajime. Hajime. Hajime.”

“Shut up.”

“I don’t want to.” He cupped his face. “Sore loser.”

“Nagito!”

Komaeda placed a kiss on his lips. Hajime resisted for about three seconds — it was a record, shut up — before he melted into his touch, hands coming up to thread through Komaeda’s hair. The latter smiled against his mouth, pulling away with his eyes still half closed.

“Ah.” He mused, “My soft man.”

“D-Don’t call me that— We talked about this!”

“But I can’t help it!” His arms shifted so they could stay around his neck, shifting till he was basically on his lap. “Hajime is ever so soft…”

“C-Can you shut your mouth?!” He flushed, hiding his face in his shoulder. “F-Fuck, you’re so—”

“Wonderful for you, yes.” He hummed, “Terrible choice, really, but I’m the one that’s dating you, so I’m in no place to judge—”

“Ugh.”

He pulled away, made it so they could look at each other. His expression faltered, and he broke into a small smile.

Komaeda was pretty. He was a sight for sore eyes, believe him, and looking at him was enough to forget why he was angry in the first place.

The next kisses that were placed were soft, chaste, and quite patient. Komaeda leaned into every touch Hajime delivered with tenderness, one he would furiously deny if questioned. He was trying to be better at it. He had a long way to go.

They both did, he thought as Komaeda slowly pushed him into the mattress, relishing in the weight on top of him. They would argue, kiss, and face issues like every other couple. It would take a lot more to fully understand each other.

But willing to try, perhaps, was already a step forward.

For the moment, Hajime focused on him. The rest could come later.

They had all the time in the world, anyway.